Artist and Bronze Care

Artist Information:

Richard G. Gay studied art and architecture at the University of Minnesota and learned bronze sculpturing from The Minnetonka Center for the Arts. He is an avid art collector, has traveled to many countries and developed his craft over many years. His inspiration comes from his many travels, family, the Tropics and the Keys, amongst others. Richard was a successful business owner for over 30 years. He was also an engineering technician/designer for many years.

Bronze Care:

Most newer bronze sculptures require only minimal maintenance. They have usually been sealed with a synthetic lacquer or similar finish and then sealed with a coat or two of wax which is then buffed to a high sheen. An occasional dusting/wiping with a clean, dry, soft cotton cloth is all you need to usually do. Do not use any household or commercial cleaners on the sculptures as they may have chemicals which could react with the finish or patina the artist has used and cause permanent damage to your sculpture.

To prevent or minimize long term darkening and discoloration, bronze sculptures generally do require re-waxing and polishing every one to three years. This depends on the climate conditions they are displayed in. In a climate of higher humidity and/or more airborne contaminates, you may need to clean and re-wax more frequently such as once or twice a year. When displayed in a drier less humid environment, you may only need to re-wax once every one to three years.

When waxing, make sure your sculpture is completely free of all dust and dry before proceeding. Use a small fine brush, such as an artists’ brush, about 1” or so wide. Protect the metal area on the brush with some tape so as the metal will not scratch your sculpture. Then apply a very thin coat of S C Johnson Paste Wax or Trewax Paste Wax or similar, with a second clean brush. Be very careful not to get too much wax on the brush, just enough to barely put a thin film on the sculpture. Wipe off any heavy concentrations immediately. Let the wax dry per the instructions on the container you are using. After the wax has dried per the instructions, you can take a clean, soft, dry cotton cloth, such as terry cloth, to polish your sculpture. Use gentle circular motions to buff out to a smooth shiny finish. If you so desire, a higher degree of shine can be accomplished by using an old, women’s nylon stocking to give the final polish. Now enjoy your efforts and happy trails.