Before you commission a sculpture

• Ask to see recent work of the artist. Do you like it? Is the quality consistent?
  
• Ask for some references from other artists and from other sitters.
• Who will do the casting? Find out about the foundry.
  
• Communicate clearly any deadlines. Make certain the sculptor has a slot that fits your schedule.
• Use a contract. It can be simple, but if the artist works with a contract, it's a good sign that they intend to follow through.
• Insist upon seeing the work or pictures before it is cast.
• Find out how many hours you will be expected to sit. Some artists require more, some less.
  
• Discuss the base. What will it be made of and is it included in the fee?
• Discuss where the piece will be displayed. Outdoor statuary has special requirements.
• Show examples of the artist's work to friends. See what they think.
  
• Speak with the artist. A portrait is a bit of a collaboration between the artist, the portrayed, and the patrons. It is important that you can have a comfortable dialogue with the artist.
• What if the artist isn't famous? How do I tell if they are any good?  Honestly, there aren't many famous portrait sculptors...but there are quite a few excellent ones around. Let your instincts guide you. If you get a good feeling from the artist's portfolio and your family and friends respond in kind, there's a safe bet that you will get a sculpture that your are pleased with.
  
• Be wary of portfolios that only show front and side views of sculptures. A well-sculpted bust looks good from all angles, and a professional sculptor will show that off. Novice sculptors sometimes struggle obtaining a likeness from the 3/4-view and other perspectives because they focus only on the front and side views when they sculpt. If the artist's portfolio misses these shots, there may be a good reason. You can ask to see 3/4 views in case this is a concern.