Robert J Lang

Kevin Box, pushes the boundaries of traditional metal casting by creating sculptures that are so delicate, detailed and weightless, that they appear to be made simply of paper. After studying the graphic arts in New York, Box’s practice transformed during a trip to Greece when he decided to transition from graphic art to metal casting – a medium that will withstand the centuries and provide inspiration for generations to come. His exploration of working with metal led him to study at foundries in Texas for three years, a move that afforded him the freedom of experimentation to grow his skills and eventually open his studio. After acquiring a treasure trove of paper found in the warehouse of an old print shop near to the foundry he rented, Box decided to test mixing the two mediums by casting paper in metal. The unique combination of the delicacy of paper with the fortitude of metal created whimsical, fun and beautiful pieces with surprising weight, both literally and figuratively. Box further engages with his viewers by inviting them to touch and handle the artworks, believing that mixing the tactile and visual experiences allows his audience to fully connect with the artworks and explore their untold stories. Today, Box’s monumental sculptures can be found around the United States including the Austin City Symphony, Texas and the Four Seasons Hotel, Washington D.C. and internationally, including Australia, Morocco and Japan.

The history of sculpture as we know it is believed to have origins in Ancient Greece, while small sculptural carvings are among the most common examples of prehistoric art. In short, sculpture as a fine art has been with us forever. A powerful three-dimensional means of creative expression, sculpture has long been most frequently associated with religion — consider the limestone Great Sphinx in Giza, Egypt — while the tradition of collecting sculpture, which has also been traced back to Greece as well as to China, far precedes the emergence of museums.

Technique and materials in sculpture have changed over time. Stone sculpture, which essentially began as images carved into cave walls, is as old as human civilization itself. The majority of surviving sculpted works from ancient cultures are stone. Traditionally, this material and pottery as well as metal — bronze in particular — were among the most common materials associated with this field of visual art. Artists have long sought new ways and materials in order to make sculptures and express their ideas. Material, after all, is the vehicle through which artists express themselves, or at least work out the problems knocking around in their heads. It also allows them to push the boundaries of form, subverting our expectations and upending convention. As an influential sculptor as much as he was a revolutionary painter and printmaker, Pablo Picasso worked with everything from wire to wood to bicycle seats.

If you are a lover of art and antiques or are thinking of bringing a work of sculpture into your home for the first time, there are several details to keep in mind. As with all other works of art, think about what you like. What speaks to you? Visit local galleries and museums. Take in works of public art and art fairs when you can and find out what kind of sculpture you like. When you’ve come to a decision about a specific work, try to find out all you can about the piece, and if you’re not buying from a sculptor directly, work with an art expert to confirm the work’s authenticity.

And when you bring your sculpture home, remember: No matter how big or small your new addition is, it will make a statement in your space. Large- and even medium-sized sculptures can be heavy, so hire some professional art handlers as necessary and find a good place in your home for your piece. Whether you’re installing a towering new figurative sculpture — a colorful character by KAWS or hyperreal work by Carole A. Feuerman, perhaps — or an abstract work by Won Lee, you’ll want the sculpture to be safe from being knocked over. (You’ll find that most sculptures should be displayed at eye level, while some large busts look best from below.)

On 1stDibs, find a broad range of exceptional sculptures for sale. Browse works by your favorite creator, style, period or other attribute.