Beauty in Life
Sculpture portrait
About
Living Artifact Design is the passion project of Carl Ardron, blending artistry and technology to create timeless and emotionally resonant sculpture portraits. With a lifelong love for both art and innovation, Carl combines cutting-edge 3D scanning and digital sculpting with traditional casting techniques to produce beautifully crafted plaster sculptures.
Each piece is a unique and enduring work of art capturing the essence of its subject, offering a meaningful way to celebrate loved ones or preserve cherished memories. By integrating advanced technology in the initial stages, Living Artifact Design delivers authentic, hand-finished sculptures with remarkable efficiency—at a fraction of the time and cost of traditional methods.
This harmonious blend of modern precision and traditional craftsmanship results in portraits that are as visually stunning as they are heartfelt, bringing artistry and individuality into every creation.
Sculpture
Every sculpture is a custom commission, thoughtfully crafted to capture your unique vision. The three primary styles offered are:
- Family Frieze: A beautifully composed wall-mounted relief featuring multiple family members or loved ones.
- Persona: A refined portrait study capturing the essence and character of a single subject.
- 360 Bust: A full, three-dimensional sculpture that offers a complete and dynamic view of the subject.
Each style can be customized with variations to suit your preferences. Images on the website are for illustration purposes only, as every piece is individually designed and hand-finished to create a truly unique and meaningful artwork.
Family Frieze
Large form, multi-subject, cast on plaster formed with polished concrete backing. Size, including backing, 600mm x 400mm
360 Bust
Traditional bust form cast in plaster. Available in 50% and 100% life size variants (by height).
Persona
An individual plaster cast portrait on a polished concrete backing, available for stand-alone desktop display or wall mounting. 300mm x 160mm (with backing)
Price
| Item | Price: incl. initial Scan & Sculpt* |
|---|---|
| Family Frieze: x 4 subjects | $6,000 |
| Family Frieze: x 3 subjects | $5,000 |
| Family Frieze: x 2 subjects | $4,000 |
| 360 Bust: 100% life-size height | $10,000 |
| 360 Bust: 50% life-size height | $4,000 |
| Persona: wall mount | $2,000 |
| Persona: table mount | $2,500 |
* Scan & Sculpt involves creating an initial study using 3D scanning and in-person photography of the subject.
Duplicates
Subsequent copies of the same item are priced at 50% of the original cost.
Mixing Items
Combinations are generally priced at 50% of the original cost, plus a $500 fee for additional mould creation, with lower-priced items treated as supplementary components.
However, the 360 Bust is an exception due to its sculptural complexity; it is charged at full price, while additional items are priced at the lower rate plus the mould-making fee.
Payment Terms
Payment terms are 50% upfront (non-refundable) and the remaining 50% due upon completion, prior to delivery.
Delivery
Delivery is included within the Melbourne metro area at no additional cost.
For locations beyond this area, delivery will be calculated at the time of order and is subject to shipping costs, given the bulky and heavy nature of the sculpture.
FAQ
Working from Photos
While it is possible to work solely from photo references, this approach presents additional challenges and may require a customized review and quote.
Do you do pets?
Pets present unique challenges for sculpture. Since 3D scanning isn't practical, capturing their distinct character requires a creative approach. It's certainly possible, but pricing is based on individual discussion and requirements.
How long does it take to receive my sculpture?
Typically around 6 to 8 weeks, though this may be extended due to weather conditions affecting curing times.
Are there any safety issues with 3D scanning?
The 3D scanner emits a blue light that flashes and is quite bright. While completely safe and less intense than a typical camera flash, I provide medical-grade light-blocking goggles for anyone concerned. Usually, simply closing your eyes is enough!
Where does the initial scan and photo study happen?
The scanning setup is fully portable and only requires an indoor space with a power point. I will come to you, where you might find it most convenient. The session typically takes no longer than 30 minutes and is often quicker.
Operating outside of the Melbourne metro area
Based in Newport in Melbourne's inner west, I primarily operate within the Melbourne metropolitan area, I can travel further when viable. Additional charges may apply for extended distances.
Contact
Get in Touch!
I’d love to hear from you! Whether you're curious about the process, considering a commission, or just exploring ideas, feel free to reach out. There's no obligation. I'm always happy to chat and discuss the possibilities for creating a unique and meaningful sculpture. Let’s see where creativity can take us!