Traditionally regarded as a form of art, sculptures have been around the United States since the 18th century. These sculptures are man-made objects, which sometimes employ the use of a tool or machine. Used mainly as a form of expression, sculptures were witnesses to the ancient past. For example, relics discovered from ancient ruins depicted life during the old Greek civilization. These sculptures help man understand the evolution of art through the ages. Depicting archaic forms, these artifacts were just the beginning of the popularity of this particular art form.
For most part, sculptures differ due to the type of design they usually reflect. Starting from the classical Hellenistic era, sculptures have evolved to the romantic and even dramatic eras, to the abstract styles preferred today. Those who make sculptures are called sculptors. They are the ones that actually dictate the trend of sculptures as an art form. Nowadays, modern sculptors are more inclined to create sculptures in architectural settings such as public buildings. Combining classical and abstract styles have produced sculptures that are mostly figurative.
Created entirely in a three-dimensional perspective, sculptures greatly differ from other forms of art. They can emulate either realistic or theoretical images. Sculptors in their art creations employ different techniques. One is called sculpting in the round while another uses an incised type. Some of other notable techniques include molding, carving, casting and construction.
Modeling may involve the addition or subtraction of a material. This makes it very different from the carving method. Creativity is more apparent in the modeling technique. Because of this, carving presently has also begun attaching similar or different materials. Casting, on the other hand, involves duplication of another sculpture or even ordinary object. This particular technique is advantageous if you want to duplicate another sculpture made of heavy material; but this time, you will only be using a lighter material. This duplicate can now stand without any clay or stone support.
Among these three techniques, modeling remains unchanged today. Materials such as clay, papier-mâché and wax are still used. The invention of the plastic as materials for sculptures replaced the preferred clay, terra cotta and ceramics. Contemporary sculptors are collecting and utilizing objects that are considered as “junks”. Many museums and art galleries feature this kind of sculpture that seems to be very appealing to the younger generation. Other sculptures use different metal or wood. Equipments were also invented to aid man in creating his masterpieces.
Sculptures have played a very big role in defining what is considered as art today. Conservative critics may frown upon the proliferation of modern objects, which do not belong to any specific genre. On the other hand, the youth today has different views and opinions about the traditional sculptures. Saying that the old sculpture no longer depicts modern times. Still, the art of sculpting will be considered as a major influence in the art world and though it may change in the coming years, its function and effectiveness as a medium of expression will remain.