| Before the Bronze, The Studies Behind the Masterworks |
 Dear Laine, Not every sculpture begins with a preparatory study – but when an idea calls for deeper exploration, Richard MacDonald turns to studies as an essential part of his creative process. These works allow him to explore movement, anatomy, and emotion, giving space for an idea or story to evolve naturally before a final sculpture takes form. Preparatory studies may include quick gesture sketches, anatomy studies, or refined maquettes created in clay, where Richard can work instinctively – adjusting gesture, balance, and flow in real time. These are the moments where movement is discovered, emotion clarified, and narrative intent begins to emerge. Many of Richard’s major commissions reflect this process. His collaboration with The Royal Ballet in London evolved into a significant body of work, with studies centered on the Royal Ballet’s principal dancers, resulting in a collection comprising more than 25 individual works. Similarly, the 100th U.S. Open Monument at Pebble Beach was preceded by focused studies – including Anatomy of a Golfer I–V and Grip Study – created to understand the rhythm and mechanics of the golf swing before the final monumental bronze was realized. A Closer Look – Nightfall |
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One of Richard’s most beloved sculptures, Nightfall, began as a rough clay study, where the female was dramatically veiled and mostly covered. The work was then refined into a more resolved maquette, ultimately leading to the finished sculpture known today. What makes Nightfall unique is that both the maquette and the refined versions are available within the collection, offering collectors insight into the evolution of the work. Over the past year, Richard has devoted himself to an exciting new commission for The Weavers of Change Foundation in Singapore, inspired by the Moirai, the mythological sisters who weave the threads of fate. Each figure was sculpted first in the nude, then draped, allowing the narrative to unfold through a powerful series of studies. More details coming soon. If you would like to be among the first to view this important new project – or to learn more about available studies and maquettes – please let us know. Jerry Olivarez (702) 812-1411 jolivarez@theartofrichardmacdonald.com |
Before the Bronze, The Studies Behind the Masterworks
