Everyone enjoys adding a touch of color and beauty to their home with artwork, and sculptures combine rich color with touchable 3D surfaces and textures. If you’re just starting to dive into the wide world of sculptures, it may be overwhelming to decide which pieces to bring home for your collection. Will that wood sculpture look stunning perched atop your mantel? Or would a pair of matching wall sculptures complement a narrow hallway better? Here are a few tips to help you choose a gorgeous, long-lasting work of 3D art for your home:

What should I consider before purchasing a new metal, wood, ceramic or wire sculpture?

Naturally you’ll want your sculptures to be around for at least a few years, so it’s important to choose a piece that exhibits a high level of quality. Also, keep in mind what size will fit into your home décor. While a large wood sculpture may look spectacular in the shop, it may prove overwhelming and cumbersome when added to your living space. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a statement-making piece, you may want to choose that medium-size bronze sculpture instead of a smaller wire sculpture. The great thing about sculptures is they come in a great variety of sizes, so you’re sure to find one that will complement your current décor perfectly.

Size aside, don’t forget to consider what style you’ll prefer. You’ll find plenty of modern sculpture, abstract sculpture and other styles to choose from, so don’t feel as if you’re limited to only one genre of art. It’s best to pick sculptures that will fit in with your décor even as it changes over the years so you can continue to display your ceramic or metal sculpture for years to come.

What’s the difference between the different materials used for sculptures?

One major decision you’ll quickly be confronted with is the type of material used to create sculptures. While there are differences in how each material is shaped into the final artwork, your choice mainly comes down to aesthetics. Even so, here’s a short explanation of some of the major differences between each material:
• Bronze: A bronze sculpture is molded and shaped to create angles and form. They range in size from sculptures that can sit on your shelf to larger pieces that strike a pose on the floor and tend to be fairly durable.
• Glass: Heat is used to form glass into different shapes that range in color from clear to every hue of the rainbow. These tend to be more fragile and should be displayed in an area out of reach of children and pets.
• Metal: A metal sculpture is created by sheets of metal that are shaped with heat and tools. They’re one of the most durable material options and come in a wide range of sizes.
• Ceramic: One of the most common materials, ceramic is formed and then fired after a colored or clear glaze is applied. They tend to be fragile and, just like glass pieces, should be displayed in a location where children and pets can’t reach them.
• Wire: Wire sculptures feature metal wire that has been heated to form different shapes and textures. They’re also durable and come in a range of sizes and styles.