Commission a Custom Sculpture
A commissioned sculpture is one of the most personal things you can have made. Some people come to me with a space in mind — a garden, an entrance, a room that needs a centrepiece. But many come with something deeper. A loved one lost. A personal journey. A shared belief that deserves to be given permanent, beautiful form. I've also worked directly with schools, carving alongside children to create a sculpture that captures the identity and spirit of their community — something that will stand in their grounds for generations.
Over the years, I've found that I have a particular ability to listen — to hear what someone is really looking for, even when they're not quite sure how to put it into words. Through sketches and conversation, I help bring those feelings to the surface and shape them into something you can hold, place in your garden, and carry with you for the rest of your life.
I've been doing this for over two decades. Every commission starts the same way: with a conversation.
Commissions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, with most pieces sitting somewhere in the middle. Price depends on size, complexity and the level of detail involved — a small but highly detailed carving can take just as long as something much larger that requires more physical effort to work through. The only way to give you an accurate figure is to have a conversation about what you have in mind. There's no obligation in asking.
Why Oamaru Stone
I work almost exclusively in Oamaru stone — a soft, creamy-white limestone quarried in the South Island of New Zealand. It has a natural warmth and matte finish that looks beautiful in a garden setting, and once sealed, it weathers remarkably well. It's also more affordable than many other carving stones, which means more of your budget goes into the work itself rather than the raw material.
From Concept to Finished Sculpture
Design sketches — the starting point for every commission.
How the Process Works
1. The Conversation
We start by talking — about the space, the meaning, the story behind why you want this piece. Sometimes people know exactly what they want. Sometimes they just know how they want it to feel. Either is a perfect starting point. If you're in Christchurch I'll often come to the property. If you're further afield, photos and a conversation work just as well.
2. The Design
I develop your ideas into a sketch and share it with you for feedback. Nothing is set in stone (so to speak) until you're happy with the direction. Once you give the go-ahead, I source the stone and get to work.
3. The Carving
I will keep you updated throughout with photos and videos so you can see the work taking shape. Once complete, the sculpture is sealed with two coats of professional masonry sealer — the same product used on Oamaru stone buildings — to protect it for decades outdoors.
4. Approval & Delivery
Before the final payment is made, I send you photos and video of the completed work for your approval. Within Christchurch, I deliver personally. For the rest of New Zealand and internationally, I work with Pack and Send to ensure the sculpture arrives safely.
Payment
A deposit is required before work begins to cover the cost of sourcing and delivering the stone. The deposit amount is confirmed at the time of the quote. The balance is invoiced once you've approved the finished work. Delivery costs are arranged separately depending on your location.
Serendipity — a commissioned garden sculpture in Oamaru stone.
What Clients Say
"Shaugn followed our brief in every way and kept us informed via emails and photographs at each stage. We are both thrilled with the sculpture and it has become a talking point for neighbours and passers-by alike."
— Pete & Jane Daniels, Sefton
"Shaugn was so good to work with keeping me up to date with his progress every step of the creation. Sending me images of what the sculpture would look like in the garden was really helpful. I am so thrilled with the sculpture and it looks fantastic in my garden."
— Vicki Brown
"The design and craftsmanship are outstanding and we have received many complimentary comments about this unique piece of art. From the initial discussions through to the delivery of the completed work we were kept fully informed on progress."
— Margaret
"When Shaugn came back to me with a draft design, he told me his story. I knew I'd found the right artist. My sculpture was carved with real aroha. Shaugn understood what I wanted. He understood why it mattered to me. And he delivered something beautiful."
— Kristine Chadwick
Ready to Start a Conversation?
Tell me about the space, the feeling, or even just a rough idea — I'll take it from there. There's no obligation in getting in touch, and I'm always happy to talk through what's possible.