Commission Process

A clear, collaborative approach to commissioning sculpture for institutions, foundations, and permanent public settings.

Stainless steel portrait commissioned to mark a milestone in scientific philanthropy.
Scripps Research, La Jolla, California.

Initial Conversation

Every commission begins with a conversation. This discussion establishes the goals, site context, scale, materials, and timeline. Whether commemorating an individual, marking an institutional milestone, or creating a public artwork, this step sets the foundation.

Research & Concept Development

Design development draws from reference materials, site conditions, and conceptual direction. For living subjects, this may include an in-person sitting; for posthumous works, archival material and interviews guide the process.

Concept sketch developed from reference materials and consultation.

Full-Scale Sculpting

Once the design is approved, the sculpture is developed at full scale—physically in clay or digitally where appropriate. Clients may review progress at key milestones.

Sculpting full scale clay for Ron Howard bust.

Casting & Fabrication

Approved works are cast using the lost-wax process or fabricated in bronze, stainless steel or other materials. This phase includes mold-making, casting, welding, chasing, and surface finishing.

Wax model prepared for lost-wax casting (Mercury).

Bronze welding and fabrication in progress (Saint Teresa).

Engineering & Installation

For large-scale or site-integrated works, structural engineering and installation are coordinated with architects and fabricators to ensure safe, lasting placement.

Engineering drawings prepared for structural review and installation.

Bust and pedestal installation in Balboa Park, San Diego, California.

Investment & Pricing

Commissioning a sculpture is an investment in legacy, craftsmanship, and long-term public presence. Budgets vary based on scale, materials, site conditions, and review requirements. Typical starting ranges include:

Portrait busts (institutional / high-likeness): from $20,000+
Life-size figures and site-integrated works: from $95,000–$120,000+

Payment schedule: one-third deposit, one-third upon design approval, one-third upon completion

Engineering, pedestal fabrication, and site-specific installation requirements are scoped separately in coordination with project teams.

“Mr. Becker’s artistic abilities are exquisite; his professional work ethic, impeccable. This artist does what he promises to do, on time and on budget.”

— Karen Hathaway, CEO

Inquiries are welcome from institutions, foundations, and project teams.

RICHARD BECKER, FNSS