FAQs

Q: How can I commission a sculpture in a design or size not available online?

At VELA, we specialize in the unique. Simply reach out via our Contact Us page with your reference images, sketches, or site dimensions. An Art Advisor will evaluate your vision and provide a professional feasibility study and quote within one business day.

Q: Is my sculpture handmade or mass-produced?

Every VELA piece is individually handcrafted by experienced artists using traditional casting, structural welding, and manual finishing techniques. We reject mass-production; no two pieces are exactly identical, ensuring your acquisition remains a singular work of art.

Q: Can I talk to my sculptor during the process?

Yes. Upon initiation, you will be assigned a dedicated Art Consultant who bridges the communication between you and the studio. You will receive progress updates to ensure every curve and texture meets your 100% satisfaction before the piece leaves our studio.

Q: Can I change the size or finish after placing my order?

Refinements are fully supported during the design phase (typically the first 5-7 business days). Once the final CAD drawings are approved and structural fabrication begins, changes become irreversible. We urge you to finalize all dimensions during the consultation stage.

Q: What materials do you specialize in?

Our portfolio includes Marine-Grade Stainless Steel (304/316L), Artisan Cast Bronze, Hand-Carved Natural Marble, and High-End Contemporary Fiberglass. Each material is selected for its purity and longevity.

Q: 304 vs. 316L: Which grade of Stainless Steel should I choose?

For coastal estates, marine environments, or proximity to chlorinated pools, 316L (Marine-Grade) is essential as it contains molybdenum to prevent chloride corrosion. For inland residential gardens with low salt exposure, 304 Grade offers excellent durability and aesthetic appeal.

Q: What is the "Static Mirror" finish?

This is our signature high-clarity mirror surface. It delivers the strongest visual impact, creating crisp reflections of the surrounding landscape. While it offers a luxury-grade presence, it requires regular gentle cleaning to maintain its distortion-free clarity.

Q: Are your sculptures weather-resistant?

Yes. Our works are engineered for resilience. Stainless steel is virtually rust-proof, bronze develops a protective natural patina that thrives in wet climates, and our coatings are UV-resistant to withstand extreme solar exposure.

Q: How do I install a large-scale sculpture?

Installation depends on your site:
• Concrete Surfaces: We provide internal base plates for secure expansion anchor bolting.
• Lawn/Soil: we design reinforced sub-surface frame bases to be embedded in concrete footings for permanent stability.
We customize the anchoring plan for every project based on your specific site conditions.

Q: Do you offer on-site installation services?

We provide comprehensive Installation Blueprints and hardware. While we don't provide direct labor, we can assist your local contractors. For major cities like New York, Dallas, or Los Angeles, we can check for approved professional installation partners in our network.

Q: How do I ensure the sculpture is secure in a public space?

We offer anti-tamper mounting systems, reinforced internal skeletons, and concealed locking mechanisms for public-facing works. Contact us for consultation on high-security installation practices.

Q: What is the lead time from design to delivery?

Quality takes time. On average, production requires 35-45 business days, with an additional 25-35 business days for international transit. The total window is typically 12-14 weeks. We recommend initiating commissions early for site-specific deadlines.

Q: Do you ship to my location?

Yes, we ship globally. We provide Free Shipping (including duties and taxes) to the Continental US. For Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, and international destinations, we provide a custom logistics quote within one business day.

Q: What if the sculpture arrives damaged?

Every VELA shipment is fully insured. It is vital to inspect the crate upon delivery. If damage is detected, please report it within 48 hours with photographic evidence so we can initiate a restoration or replacement claim immediately.

Q: Do you support a deposit payment model?

Yes. For bespoke commissions, we support a 50% deposit to initiate production. The remaining 50% balance is settled after you approve the final inspection photos of your finished masterpiece, prior to shipping.

Q: Is there after-sales support?

Every VELA sculpture is backed by a Structural Warranty. Beyond the warranty, we offer lifetime care consulting, including maintenance routines and restoration advice to ensure your investment preserves its value.