Frequently Asked Questions
(Click on a question from the list below to jump directly to the Answer)
If you have other questions not answered here, please e-mail me, or use the Comments Form, and I will answer you.
How are the sculptures made?
Most of my sculpture is done with an oxygen-acetalyne gas welding
torch and steel. Electrical arc welding is used occasionally for thicker pieces
of steel. Some of my found object sculptures incorporate other nonmetal materials,
which are attached in new ways. The welded steel sculptures are created by
using 3 foot mild steel rods, usually 3/32" diameter. I start by outlining
forms and shapes, and depending on how solid of a surface is desired, I then
melt subsequent layers of steel onto the piece, and build up surfaces and
textures as needed. On some pieces, I use an angle grinder make a smooth finish,
but often leave entire surfaces in their original, rough metal state.
In 2004, I began operating a small foundry in my studio, which allows me to cast sculptures out of aluminum, or other alloys with a lower melting point. This is a totally different process than I have done previously, and allows me even more freedom in design and creating sculptures.
How are the sculptures finished or sealed?
My steel sculptures are usually finished in one of several ways
(if you purchase a piece, you can request a particular finish):
1. Powder Coating: This is a durable, baked on finish that is used
to seal many commercial and household goods. It is available in a variety
of colors or appearances. See this
website for an idea of how many colors are available with Powder Coating,
including chrome-like colors, or clear colors. The advantage of powder coating
is that it can be applied to ANY steel shape or surface (electro-static spray
on particles, that are then baked to form a durable, shell like surface).
2. Chrome: sculptures (and particularly hood ornaments) can be chrome
plated, if the surface is smooth enough to create proper adhesion. Inquire for availability. There is an additional charge for chrome plating, because sculptures have to be sent to a chrome shop for this process.
3. Stong Floor Wax: This protects the metal from air and prevents rusting.
Gives the steel surface a matte, or low gloss, dry appearance.
4. Rust: then sealing the rusty finish to stop the process. This gives
the metal a warm, deep red color, and the appearance of something very old.
It also signifies the Passage of Time.
5. Paint: Rust proof paints can be used (mainly for a cheaper coating
for Custom Hood Ornaments), comes in
many colors and is cheaper than chrome or powder coating processes.
For more information about finishes for my Custom Hood Ornaments, click here.
Can the sculptures be displayed outdoors?
The sculptures that I make can usually be displayed outdoors with no
adverse effects on the piece. If a steel sculpture is displayed outside year-round, it will be necessary to re-apply a clear finish every couple of years, as the UV rays from the sun will eventually break down any finish/paint that is applied. If a piece is not suitable for outdoor display,
I would indicate that when discussing possible purchase with a customer.
What about commissioned sculptures?
I am more than happy to take requests for sculptures, or custom hood ornaments.
Some of my most successful pieces have been based on a customer suggestion.
The best way to make a request is by e-mailing
me. I will consider all requests, and do my best to respond to inquiries
within 48 hours. Some things that people request are not possible for me to
make, due to the methods I use.
If you have an idea, it's best
to just ask me if it's something I can make.
Some of the pieces on this website are not available for sale, but similar versions can be produced upon request.
How is payment for sculpture made?
Payment for sculptures can be arranged by either mailing a check or money
order directly to me, or using the online 3rd party payment system, PayPal
(see below for more about PayPal). I must receive payment prior to shipping
the sculpture. If desired, I can provide references from others who have purchased
sculptures from me, and who were very satisfied with the process and piece - please see the Quotes page for direct quotes from Customers.
What is PayPal?
PayPal is the largest 3rd party payment system on the Internet. It is owned
by E-Bay (online auctions) and is a secure, reliable method for making financial
transactions online. All major credit cards can be used, and to make a transaction
using PayPal, it only takes a couple of minutes to register an account, and
enter the financial information. For
more information about PayPal, click here.
How are prices set for the sculptures?
The primary factor in setting prices for sculptures is the amount of time
that it took me to create the piece. The cost of materials must also be accounted
for (raw steel, welding gas).
What's the best method to arrange a purchase?
I prefer that negotiations are done via e-mail
/ Contact Form, but if needed, we can talk on
the phone, or you may write me and send via postal mail. E-mail is easier
for me, because of the written record that we both have of our negotiations/transactions.
I receive many inquiries, and it's much easier to track them with a written
record. If you need to contact me by phone, I have a listed number, under
my name (Jud Turner), and I reside in Eugene, Oregon, USA, or see the Contact Information page.
What is the method and cost of shipping
a sculpture?
When a sculpture is purchased, I ship it using either UPS or Priority Mail
(US Postal Service). The cost of shipping is determined by the weight of the
sculpture.
Is the shipping insured?
I always purchase insurance when shipping a sculpture, so that if anything
happens during transit, we will both be covered financially. The cost of insurance
is absorbed within the overall shipping cost (see above).
How are custom hood ornaments installed?
The custom hood ornaments that I make are fairly simple to install. Detailed
installation instructions are included with the hood ornament. Basically,
you only need to drill a couple of small holes in the hood of the vehicle,
which is easy to do because auto hoods are usually thin sheet metal. If you
can use a power drill, you can install a hood ornament in about 10 minutes.
Or, if you are not comfortable using power tools, any auto mechanic could
install it for a minimal labor fee.
Jud Turner Sculpture Gallery
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