I'm Jason Smith, a metal sculptor in Hillsborough, North Carolina, with 38 years working with metal. These are the questions people ask me most. If yours isn't here, just ask.

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How does a custom sculpture commission work?

It starts with a conversation. You and I talk by phone or email about your space, your vision and your budget.

Then I create a rendering that shows the sculpture in your actual landscape, so you can see it in place before anything is built. Once you're happy with it, I build it.

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How much does a custom metal sculpture cost?

It depends on the size and the materials. A tall stainless steel piece and a small garden piece are very different projects.

I work with each client by phone or email to fit their budget. Tell me what you have in mind and what you'd like to spend, and I'll show you what's possible.

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How long does a commission take?

Most commissions take about 90 days. Larger or more complex pieces can take longer. I'll give you a realistic timeline when you tell me about your project.

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Will I see the sculpture before you build it?

Yes. I create a rendering that shows the sculpture in your own landscape, using your space. That way you can judge the scale, the shape and the setting before I start building.

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Do you ship sculptures nationwide?

Yes. I ship anywhere in the US. I build a custom wooden crate for each sculpture, and it travels by freight to you.

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Do you install sculptures?

Yes. I can install on site in person. I've traveled as far as Utah to install a piece for a client. For out-of-state installs, travel cost depends on the location, and I'll talk that through with you up front.

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What is Corten weathering steel, and how does it age?

Corten is a weathering steel. When it's outdoors, rain and sun form a rust-colored layer on the surface. That layer settles into a stable, protective finish that slows further rusting.

The color starts lighter and deepens over the first months into a rich, warm brown. Every piece weathers a little differently depending on its climate and setting. Early on, rainwater running off new Corten can stain the surface below it, so it's worth planning what sits underneath.

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Will a steel sculpture hold up outdoors? How do I care for it?

My outdoor pieces are made to live outside in steel, stainless steel, and weathering Corten steel. Stainless steel resists rust and keeps its shine. Corten is meant to weather. My patina finishes are hand applied and sealed.

Care is simple. Keep the base clear of debris and rinse off dust and pollen with water now and then. Every finish is a little different, so ask me about care for your specific piece.

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What do I need to prepare for installation?

A solid, level base. I bolt my outdoor pieces to a concrete slab or a paver through steel tabs at the base, using 1/2 in anchor bolts. A smaller piece can sit on a paver. A larger piece gets a concrete slab sized to its footprint. I'll give you the measurements up front, so the base is ready when the sculpture arrives.

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Do you make indoor and commercial sculptures?

Yes. Along with garden and landscape pieces, I make indoor sculptures and commercial pieces for lobbies, offices and public spaces. We Stand with You, in stainless steel, stands in the lobby of Atlantic General Hospital's Regional Cancer Care Center in Berlin, Maryland. New School Bike is a public commission I made for Electrified in St. Petersburg, Florida. My sculptures are now in 29 states and 5 countries.

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What style of sculpture do you make?

Abstract and geometric. I like shapes in balance: circles, arches, spheres, gears and long sweeping curves. Much of my work is Asian-inspired, with bells, enso circles and Asian characters.

My background shapes the details. I come from four generations of jewelers and started as a goldsmith and designer before turning to large abstract steel sculpture.

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Where can I see your work in person?

My work is on display at the Hillsborough Gallery of Arts in Hillsborough, NC. You can also see The Sound of Tranquility at Hillsborough Town Hall, which the Town of Hillsborough bought as a Purchase Award in 2025. I'm a member of the Orange County Artists Guild.

You can see more on my gallery page, on Instagram, on Facebook and in my Etsy shop.

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How do I get started?

Reach out with a little about your space and what you're picturing. Photos of the spot help a lot.

- Call: 919-423-5978
- Email: sculpturesmith@gmail.com
- Or use my contact form

I'll get back to you and take it from there.