Kelly John’s sculptures are exquisitely observed and rich with almost imperceptible subtleties; elevating his art from the merely good to that of a true master.
Kelly’s talent, skill, experience and lifelong dedication to his craft is clearly visible in every piece he sculpts. It is truly rare to find an artist with such ability. The ‘Kelly sculptural style, whilst very definitely figurative, is quite unique. Fascinated by both form and detail Kelly sculpts with a fluidity and energy that many admire, but few can equal. Simultaneously and apparently effortlessly, combining vivacious energy with a jewel-like attention to detail, resulting in instantly recognisable works of art. In Kelly’s eyes, all his subjects are enthralling, wonderful and beautiful, and through his sculpture he strives to encapsulate that beauty and wonder for all to see. As Paul Cézanne once said of Claude Monet, “Only an eye. But what an eye!”
Kelly’s sculptures are both beautiful, collectable, works of art and loving figurative portraits. With subjects ranging widely, from small to monumental, Kelly’s sculptures are owned and admired by an ever growing number of Kelly Collectors worldwide.
Patination is the process of treating the surface of the bronze with special combinations of chemicals, that react with the surface of the bronze, building up layers of translucent, coloured oxides. Different chemicals react differently with the bronze and each other, to produce a huge variety of possible colour combinations. But it is not that simple! The dilution of the patinating chemicals, the composition of the bronze that they are applied to, the order in which the different chemical mixes are applied and the mixes used (they react with each other as well as the bronze casting) even the temperature and atmospheric humidity on the day that the casting is patinated can effect the final result. Once the layers of colour have been built up, the surface of the bronze is sealed and protected with multiple layers of protective waxes. This halts any on-going chemical reaction and seals the surface of the sculpture, protecting and preserving the patina.
Bronze is a wonderful material; resonant with history; strong, beautiful, at times delicate, yet incredibly durable. There are 5000 year old bronze sculptures that look as good today as the day they were cast. Almost timeless in their beauty. Kelly John’s sculptures carry on that great legacy.
Prices
Kelly’s extensive collection of sculptures range from a tiny, life-size, Pygmy Shrew, to a monumental, 15 foot, Kodiak Brown Bear.
Prices start from $1,450.
If you would like to order a sculpture, enquire about availability, or commission something new, Kelly would love to hear from you! Please use the Contact form, or look at our Ordering page for more information.
