Preserving Outdoor Bronze Sculptures

Beautiful outdoor sculptures decorate parks and federal buildings and stand as memorials to those who have come before us all across this great land. Many are made of durable bronze which is meant to withstand the elements and exposure to sun, rain, wind, sleet and snow. But, over time, the harsh weather and environment can start to take its toll on the sculpture. Light and heat can fade pigments and break down protective lacquers. Dirt can build up in crevices, hard water can cause unsightly streaks and wind and rain can wear away wax coatings.

Taking proper care, including regular maintenance of your outdoor bronze sculptures will ensure they are kept in good condition. Here are a few tips to keeping your sculptures looking as beautiful as the day they were created.

• Inspect and photograph annually.
• Look for signs of corrosion around the base. Are there stress craps or rust? Structural issues are critical and should be addressed promptly.
• How does the coloring look? Excluding coloring that is intentional, green or white streaks are a sign of corrosion or mineral build-up. Corrosion should be addressed immediately before it permanently damages the sculpture, and mineral build-up can be removed to improve the appearance.
• Pay attention to surface conditions. All areas should have a consistent sheen of an even protective coating.
• Once you’ve inspected its condition, it’s time to clean the sculpture. Use a regular pressure hose, a soft nylon bristle brush or sponge and non-ionic detergent to remove dust and debris.
• Finally, add a layer of wax to protect the surface.
•  If during your inspection and cleaning you found any structural damage or corrosion, it is important to contact a conservator for repairs.

Jean-Jacques Porret: The Artist

Swiss-born, Jean-Jacques Porret is a self-taught artist and sculptor specializing in the lost wax technique of casting bronze sculptures. He began his journey to the arts and America after acquiring a degree in engineering. Upon graduation, Porret moved to New York, anxious to learn English and build a life for himself. That transformation put his career in motion and led him to Chicago, Illinois. 

From the start Porret was drawn to and learned the technique of bronze and lost wax casting. Bronze primarily interested him, “because it is the most demanding material which is responsive and sweet to the touch.” 

It is said that Jean-Jacques is an independent thinker, whose sculptures can be described as a naturalist, modern blend, in which forms are simplified to their essential rhythms and elements. But, above all else, Porret is a true artist who uses his skill and craftsmanship to evoke emotions and stimulate sensations. 

Today, Porret’s bronzes can be seen in innumerable collections throughout Europe, Japan and the United States. He was also commissioned to create the bronze sculpture for the American-Swiss Friendship Award.

Working within the boundaries of his imagination, Porret blends the familiar and the unknown, each contour leading to the next, creating a self-styled harmony that he terms "rhythm in space".

The uniqueness of JJ’s artistry is his strong individuality mixed with tremendous sensitivity that make his word truly one-of-a-kind. Learn more about his individual and sensitive artwork by visiting his website today or placing an order for his book, Sculptures in Bronze.

Welcome to the J.J. Porret Blog

Using recognizable forms to evoke emotions and stimulate sensations is the key to JJ Porret’s art. JJ builds beautiful bronze sculptures, as well as stone creations and beautiful drawings. He is an original artist that creates on his own terms.

Drawn to sculpture and the lost wax casting process, JJ decided to work with bronze because “it is the most demanding material which is responsive and sweet to the touch.” He began creating amazing abstract sculptures that are all about form, making metal seemingly dance and move in ways that it never could when done by other artists.

As further proof that JJ’s intent is pure, he decided to purchase a granite and marble company so that he could have control of his sculpture’s bases. Since the purchase of this business, he has begun to integrate more marble and granite into his works, giving each piece he creates a personal style that you won’t see in other bronze sculptures. 

Learn more about JJ’s individual and sensitive artwork by visiting his Website today or placing an order for his book Sculptures in Bronze. Furthermore, you can take a look at his works in person in a variety of art galleries throughout the country.