Stainless steel on Corten steel plinth
Approx. height: 5 ft / 150 cm
Commissioned public artwork
Similar bespoke commissions from £10,000

Stalk was commissioned by a school and developed through a collaborative process with its sixth-form students, creating a permanent sculpture with a direct connection to the school community.

The design takes its starting point from the school’s logo, reinterpreting its familiar form as a large-scale sculptural work in stainless steel. Rather than simply reproducing the graphic, the design transforms it into a three-dimensional object with a strong silhouette, changing reflections and a sense of movement as it is viewed from different angles.

An important part of the commission was a practical workshop held at my studio with sixth-form students. This gave the students an opportunity to experience the processes involved in creating sculpture first-hand and allowed their involvement to become part of the story behind the finished artwork.

Standing approximately 5 ft tall, the stainless steel sculpture is mounted on a contrasting Corten steel plinth. The weathered surface of the Corten provides warmth and permanence against the reflective stainless steel, allowing the work to sit comfortably within its architectural surroundings.

Stalk demonstrates how an organisation's existing identity can be developed into a distinctive piece of site-specific sculpture, while workshops and consultation can give students, staff or the wider community meaningful involvement in the commissioning process.

Monumental Bronze, Copper & Stainless Steel Sculpture

Bronze, copper and stainless steel
Approx. height: 3 m excluding plinth
Created: 2023–2024
Site-specific commission for a private business collection, Isle of Man
Similar monumental commissions: from approximately £150,000

Sacrifice is a monumental site-specific sculpture created for a private business on the Isle of Man, forming part of the client's growing collection of artworks and installations.

At the centre of the composition is a life-size bronze figure of Christ, suspended within a monumental circular structure of stainless steel and copper. The sculpture explores sacrifice, suffering and faith through a contemporary combination of figurative bronze and architectural metalwork.

The scale and simplicity of the circular form give the work a strong presence within the landscape, while the suspended figure creates a more intimate point of focus. Viewed from different positions, the relationship between the figure, circle, sky and surrounding environment continually changes.

A contemporary interpretation in bronze and metal

The figure was originally sculpted by hand in clay, allowing the posture, expression and relationship with the surrounding structure to develop before moulding and casting.

It was subsequently cast in bronze using the traditional lost-wax process, combining centuries-old sculptural techniques with contemporary stainless-steel fabrication.

The monumental outer structure was fabricated in my studio using grade 316 stainless steel, with specially rolled hoops and an engineered internal framework providing the strength required for a sculpture of this scale. The structure was then clad in individually fitted and riveted copper sheet.

The combination of materials is integral to the work. Bronze and copper bring warmth, depth and a surface that will continue to develop with age, while stainless steel provides the structural strength and precision required for the overall composition.

Sculpture created for a significant setting

At approximately three metres tall before its plinth, Sacrifice was designed to command a substantial landscape without overwhelming it.

Large-scale sculpture can give a commercial property, private estate or landscaped development a distinctive identity. It creates a focal point and a memorable sense of place, while providing clients with an artwork that has been developed specifically for its surroundings rather than selected as an afterthought.

For private collectors, a commission of this scale also offers the opportunity to create something deeply personal: an artwork informed by an idea, belief, experience or story and developed into a unique permanent piece.

From concept to installation

Projects of this scale require considerably more than the creation of the artwork itself.

Sacrifice involved the development of the original concept, clay modelling, structural fabrication, specialist bronze casting and patination, copper fabrication, trial assembly, bespoke packing and transportation to the Isle of Man. I then worked alongside the client's site team during the final assembly and installation.

This ability to take a project from an initial idea through to a completed installation is an important part of my commissioned work.

Bespoke monumental sculpture commissions

I work with private collectors, businesses, art consultants, architects, property developers and organisations to create significant site-specific sculpture for exceptional spaces.

Each project can be developed in response to the client, architecture and landscape. Materials, scale, composition and subject matter can all be explored as part of the commissioning process, from contemporary abstract work to large-scale figurative sculpture in bronze, stainless steel, copper and Corten steel.

Similar monumental commissions currently begin at approximately £150,000, with final costs determined by scale, materials, engineering, location and installation requirements.

To discuss a significant sculpture for a private collection, commercial property or landscape, please contact James Sutton Sculpture.

Stainless steel and Corten steel on stone plinth
Approx. overall height: 8 ft / 2.4 m
Life-size site-specific commission
Similar bespoke commissions: £15,000–£20,000

Ask is a life-size figurative sculpture commissioned for a privately owned business site, forming part of a wider collection of artworks and installations inspired by passages from the Bible.

The sculpture takes its inspiration from Matthew 7:7:

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Rather than illustrating the verse literally, the figure was developed as a contemplative response to its themes of enquiry, persistence, discovery and possibility. The simplified human form creates a strong silhouette while leaving space for individual interpretation.

Constructed around a structural stainless steel frame, the figure combines Corten steel and stainless steel sheet, bringing together contrasting surfaces and tones. The weathered warmth of the Corten sits against the cooler reflective stainless steel, allowing the sculpture to respond continually to changing light and weather.

Standing approximately 8 ft high including its stone plinth, Ask has a significant physical presence while retaining a restrained, almost meditative character. It sits within landscaped grounds shared by a number of businesses and a café, where visitors are encouraged to explore the site and discover artworks throughout the landscape.

The commission demonstrates how sculpture can become part of the identity and experience of a commercial property — creating a landmark, a point of conversation and something memorable for employees, clients and visitors.

I work directly with businesses, developers, private collectors and organisations to create distinctive site-specific sculpture, developing each commission in response to its setting, architecture and the ideas or stories important to the client.

Free Standing stainless steel sculpture
Approx. diameter: 1 m
Bespoke versions from: £3,000
Similar works occasionally available through the website shop

Collective Motion developed from my interest in the way individual forms can come together to create something larger than themselves.

The sculpture is constructed from a group of individually formed stainless-steel fish. Each fish exists as a distinct object, yet together they create a flowing circular movement that gives the work its overall identity. The composition explores ideas of connection, belonging and shared experience, and the balance between maintaining our individuality while being influenced by the people and environments around us.

The reflective qualities of stainless steel are an important part of the work. Light, architecture and movement are continually picked up across the surfaces of the fish, causing the sculpture to alter throughout the day and as it is viewed from different positions. There is no single fixed view; the work changes with its surroundings.

At approximately one metre in diameter, this sculpture has enough presence to create a strong focal point while retaining a sense of lightness and movement. It is particularly suited to contemporary interiors, hotel and hospitality spaces, corporate environments and private homes, where its reflective surface can interact with the architecture around it.

The concept can also be developed as a bespoke commission, with the number, scale and arrangement of the fish adapted to a particular wall or architectural setting. Larger installations can be created for reception areas, atriums, restaurants, hotels and commercial developments.

Wall-mounted stainless steel sculpture
Approx. diameter: 1 m
Bespoke versions from: £3,000
Similar works occasionally available through the website shop

Collective Motion developed from my interest in the way individual forms can come together to create something larger than themselves.

The sculpture is constructed from a group of individually formed stainless-steel fish. Each fish exists as a distinct object, yet together they create a flowing circular movement that gives the work its overall identity. The composition explores ideas of connection, belonging and shared experience, and the balance between maintaining our individuality while being influenced by the people and environments around us.

The reflective qualities of stainless steel are an important part of the work. Light, architecture and movement are continually picked up across the surfaces of the fish, causing the sculpture to alter throughout the day and as it is viewed from different positions. There is no single fixed view; the work changes with its surroundings.

At approximately one metre in diameter, this wall-mounted version has enough presence to create a strong focal point while retaining a sense of lightness and movement. It is particularly suited to contemporary interiors, hotel and hospitality spaces, corporate environments and private homes, where its reflective surface can interact with the architecture around it.

The concept can also be developed as a bespoke commission, with the number, scale and arrangement of the fish adapted to a particular wall or architectural setting. Larger installations can be created for reception areas, atriums, restaurants, hotels and commercial developments.

Monumental Stainless Steel Sculpture | Bespoke Corporate & Private Commission

Stainless steel
Approx. dimensions: 8 m long × almost 3 m high
Created: 2019–2020
Site-specific commission for a private business, Isle of Man
Similar monumental commissions: typically £50,000–£150,000

Shoal is a monumental stainless-steel sculpture commissioned for a privately owned business site on the Isle of Man. Extending approximately eight metres across the landscape, the installation transforms a simple natural phenomenon — the coordinated movement of a shoal of fish — into a large-scale contemporary sculpture.

Hundreds of individually formed stainless-steel fish combine to create a flowing composition with a strong sense of movement. Each fish was made by hand in my studio, beaten and formed individually before surface patterns and details were introduced through grinding and welding. No two are identical.

Viewed from a distance, the individual fish merge into a single sweeping form. Closer inspection reveals the variation, craftsmanship and individuality within the group. This relationship between the individual and the collective has become an important theme within my work and continues to inform my smaller Collective Motion sculptures and larger site-specific installations.

Sculpture that changes with its surroundings

Stainless steel was chosen not only for its durability but for the way it interacts with its environment. Reflections move across the surfaces as daylight, weather and viewing position change, allowing the sculpture to take on a different character throughout the day.

The open structure also allows landscape and architecture to remain visible through the sculpture. Rather than simply occupying a site, the work becomes part of it.

At this scale, Shoal creates a distinctive landmark and focal point while retaining the visual lightness and movement associated with fish travelling through water.

Bespoke sculpture for exceptional spaces

The Shoal concept can be developed as a completely bespoke commission for businesses, corporate headquarters, commercial developments, hotels, hospitality venues, private estates, luxury residences, sculpture gardens and public spaces.

The scale, number and arrangement of the fish can be designed specifically around the architecture or landscape in which the sculpture will sit. Smaller wall-mounted and freestanding interpretations are also possible, while major installations can extend across walls, landscapes or architectural spaces.

Individual fish can be customised through variations in surface pattern, texture and selected contrasting materials, allowing each commission to develop its own identity.

For commercial projects, sculpture of this scale can provide far more than decoration. It can create a recognisable landmark, arrival point and visual identity for a property, giving clients, visitors and employees something memorable with which to associate the site.

Commissioning a Shoal sculpture

I work directly with private collectors, businesses, architects, interior designers, landscape designers and art consultants to develop site-specific sculpture.

A commission can begin with photographs, architectural drawings or an initial conversation about the site. From there, the composition, scale, materials, positioning and installation requirements can be developed around the location and the client's objectives.

Similar monumental commissions are currently projected at approximately £50,000–£150,000, depending on scale, complexity, location and installation requirements.

Smaller stainless-steel fish sculptures and shoal compositions are also created periodically and can be found in the Shop, or commissioned individually.

To discuss a bespoke sculpture for a commercial property, private estate or significant architectural space, please get in touch.

Life-Size Corten Steel Figurative Sculpture

Corten steel and mild steel
Life-size figurative sculpture
Kirton in Lindsey, North Lincolnshire
Similar bespoke commissions from £20,000

Grandad’s Plough is a life-size figurative sculpture created for Kirton in Lindsey, North Lincolnshire, as part of a permanent landmark celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage.

The sculpture depicts a farmer working behind a traditional plough, but rather than reproducing the human figure literally, the form is reduced to strong, expressive planes of steel. The result sits between figuration and abstraction: recognisably human from a distance, while closer viewing reveals the construction, negative spaces and individual pieces of metal from which the figure is formed.

This simplified approach gives the sculpture a sense of movement and physical effort while allowing the surrounding landscape, sky and architecture to remain visible through the composition.

Material, form and landscape

Constructed from Corten steel and 5 mm mild steel, the sculpture was designed to have a robust physical presence appropriate to its outdoor setting.

The warm, weathered character of the steel complements the agricultural subject and gives the artwork a sense of permanence and connection to the landscape. As conditions and viewpoints change, light catches different planes of the figure, continually altering its silhouette and surface.

At life size, the work retains a human connection while still having sufficient presence to function as a landmark within its setting.

Sculpture that tells the story of a place

Grandad’s Plough demonstrates how a familiar aspect of local history can be transformed into a distinctive contemporary artwork.

The wider monument celebrates Kirton in Lindsey’s long association with agriculture, and has become part of the visual identity of the town.

This type of commission is particularly suited to locations where an artwork needs to communicate something meaningful about people, heritage, industry or place rather than functioning purely as decoration.

For businesses and private clients, the same approach can be used to develop sculpture around a company’s history, a family story, an important individual, a profession or a connection to a particular landscape.

Bespoke figurative sculpture commissions

I create site-specific figurative sculpture for private collectors, businesses, property developers, hospitality destinations, estates, schools, local authorities and public spaces.

Each commission is individually developed around its setting and story. Scale, posture, materials and level of abstraction can all be adapted to create a work that feels specific to the client rather than a reproduction of an existing sculpture.

Works can be created as standalone landscape sculptures, incorporated into architectural settings or developed as part of a wider entrance, memorial or placemaking project.

Similar life-size bespoke commissions currently start from approximately £20,000, with larger and more complex projects priced according to scale, materials, engineering, foundations and installation requirements.

To discuss a figurative sculpture for a private collection, business, development or public space, please contact James Sutton Sculpture.

Monumental Stainless Steel Wildlife Sculpture

316 stainless steel
Approx. height: 9 ft / 2.7 m
Bespoke private commission
Similar large-scale commissions from £15,000

Hummingbird is a large-scale stainless steel sculpture commissioned by a private collector to mark a special wedding anniversary. Rising approximately nine feet, the work transforms the fleeting movement of a hummingbird into a permanent sculptural statement.

The bird is suspended from a flower by the tip of its beak, creating the impression that it is hovering momentarily in space. This carefully balanced composition gives a substantial metal sculpture an unexpected sense of lightness, movement and delicacy.

Created from 316 stainless steel, the sculpture combines strength and permanence with a surface that continually responds to its environment. Changing daylight, reflections and surrounding colours move across the metal, giving the work a different character according to weather, season and viewpoint.

A personal commission on a monumental scale

The hummingbird was chosen for its particular significance to the client, allowing the finished sculpture to become more than a landscape feature. It commemorates an important moment in their lives while remaining a contemporary artwork in its own right.

This is an approach I particularly value within private commissions: taking an animal, natural form, memory or idea with personal meaning and developing it into a sculpture that is specific to both the collector and the place in which it will live.

At approximately 2.7 metres high, Hummingbird has the scale to become a focal point within a substantial garden or landscape while the open structure and elevated bird prevent it from feeling visually heavy.

Stainless steel sculpture for gardens and exceptional spaces

Large-scale wildlife sculpture can work particularly well within private estates, contemporary gardens, landscaped commercial properties, hotels and hospitality settings.

The reflective stainless steel creates a strong contrast with planting and natural textures, while carefully considered positioning allows the sculpture to interact with views, architecture and changing light.

For a private collector, a bespoke work can be developed around a particular location, creating an intentional relationship between the sculpture and its surroundings rather than simply placing an artwork into an existing space.

For businesses and hospitality clients, a distinctive sculpture can also provide a memorable focal point, creating an identity for an entrance, garden, courtyard or landscaped destination.

Bespoke wildlife sculpture commissions

I create individual sculptures for private collectors, businesses, interior and landscape designers, hospitality clients and art consultants, with each commission developed in response to the client and its intended setting.

Wildlife and nature-inspired commissions can be adapted in subject, scale, composition and finish, from individual statement pieces to larger sculptural installations.

Similar large-scale bespoke commissions currently start from approximately £15,000, with final costs dependent on scale, complexity, materials, site requirements and installation.

To discuss a bespoke sculpture for a private garden, estate, commercial property or hospitality setting, please contact James Sutton Sculpture.

Contemporary Stainless Steel Bird Sculptures & Bespoke Installations

Birds in Flight is an evolving collection of hand-formed stainless steel bird sculptures inspired by the movement, freedom and constantly changing patterns of birds in flight.

Each bird is individually created in my studio, with the metal cut, formed and worked by hand to capture a sense of movement without reproducing the bird too literally. Simplified silhouettes, sweeping wings and carefully considered negative space give the sculptures a contemporary character while retaining an immediate connection with the natural world.

Displayed individually or brought together in larger groups, the birds can create anything from an intimate sculptural detail to a dramatic architectural installation.

Sculpture shaped by movement and light

Stainless steel is central to the character of the collection. Its reflective surface responds continually to changing light, architecture and landscape, allowing the appearance of the birds to shift throughout the day and as the viewer moves around them.

The combination of solid metal and open space creates a feeling of lightness that contrasts with the permanence of the material. In larger installations, individual birds become part of a wider composition, creating rhythm and movement across a wall, through an atrium or within a landscape.

Different surface finishes can be used to alter the way the work interacts with its surroundings, from softer satin and hand-textured surfaces to highly reflective polished details.

Wall-mounted, suspended and freestanding sculpture

The collection can be developed in a variety of formats depending on the space.

Individual birds can be displayed as standalone sculptures, while groups can be arranged as wall-mounted artworks, freestanding compositions or suspended installations. Scale, spacing and direction can be adapted to work with the architecture of a particular setting.

Larger installations are particularly suited to:

Private residences and collections · luxury hotels and hospitality spaces · corporate headquarters and reception areas · atriums and stairwells · restaurants · contemporary gardens · sculpture parks · commercial developments

For interior projects, groups of birds can travel across walls or occupy otherwise unused vertical space. Suspended installations can create movement through double-height rooms and atriums, while exterior pieces allow polished stainless steel to contrast with planting, stone and changing skies.

Bespoke bird sculpture commissions

I work with private collectors, interior designers, architects, art consultants, hotels, businesses and property developers to create bespoke versions of the Birds in Flight collection.

A commission can be designed specifically around a wall, room, landscape or architectural feature. The number of birds, individual scale, composition, spacing, orientation, mounting method and finish can all be developed to complement the site and the client's requirements.

For larger projects, the birds can extend through an architectural space to create a distinctive focal point and a sense of movement through the building.

The modular nature of the collection also allows installations to be expanded, creating anything from a small group of birds to a substantial site-specific artwork.

Available work

Individual bird sculptures and smaller compositions are occasionally available through the website shop.

For larger wall-mounted, suspended, freestanding or site-specific installations, please contact me to discuss a bespoke commission.

To discuss a stainless steel bird sculpture for a private collection, hotel, business or architectural project, please contact James Sutton Sculpture.

Private commission for collectors garden.

Stainless Steel Butterfly sculptures by James Sutton Sculpture.

2300 butterflies created to raise money for Ashgate Hospice. Exhibited at Chatsworth House, raising roughly £100,000 for the charity.

ashgatehospice.org.uk/butterfly-appeal

Find out more about charity fundraising campaigns here.

Corten and Stainless sculpture created for Pembroke Secondary School as a reflection on covid and lock down. The boy is created from hundreds of Corten butterflies, and surrounded with stainless butterflies with text and imagery from the students about their experience.

Memorial tree for St Frances Special school to remember children and staff lost over the last 5 years. Designed so more personalised leaves can be added as needed in the future.

“The Lancaster and Vulcan are two iconic aircraft that played an important part in RAF Waddington’s proud history. I am extremely grateful to James Sutton for scuplting such a wonderful piece to celebrate the Station’s 100th Anniversary. Furthermore, the etchings of Lincoln Cathedral pay homage to our close links with the city of Lincoln, which continues to provide excellent support to the Station and its personnel. Positioned outside of Station Headquarters the sculpture will command the attention of all those that pass through the gates of RAF Waddington.”

Group Captain Al Marshall, Station Commander at RAF Waddington

In 2020 I ws fortunate to take part in BBC Ones ‘Home Is Where The Art Is’.

You can commission or buy your own fish from my shop or watch the show here on iplayer.

Small shoals of fish in stainless steel. Occasionally available from my shop or to commission singularly or in shoals.

Then God said “let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.”

Stainless steel commissions in progress.

Stainless steel bird sculptures. Occasionally available from my shop.

Corten steel life size sheep sculptures for a private client by James Sutton Sculpture.

60 year wedding anniversary commission. Ring for each year married.

Corten steel

2018

Private commission

Manx Loaghtan Sheep

Stainless Steel frame and horns, clad in Cor-ten steel.

Lincolnshire Long Wool Sheep

Public art commission for Branston village near Lincoln.

Galvanised Steel

Ram Sculpture created out of 316 stainless for a private client. Inspired by their partners favourite football team. Stands around 70cm tall.

Butterfly sculpture created for DIY SOS Scunthorpe.

Stainless steel and copper.

Public Commission for Leighton Buzzard Council to create 6 decorative bridge panels, inspired the local history and community engagement workshops. 2013-14

Created in collaboration with Spitfire Forge

‘Swale Bridge’ Balustrade Commission for Leighton Buzzard Council. Inspired the local landscape and wildlife, informed by community workshops. Made up of 18 galvanised steel panels.

2013-14

Created in collaboration with Spitfire Forge

Public Art commission to create a series of beautiful & inspiring cast metal finials from aluminium. Working with over 100 community members, participants designed and made thier own fish in clay. These were then cast in aluminium at the studio and instaled along side James’ own creations on Haven Bank in Boston, Lincolnshire.

PROJECT BLOG

Commission for Broughton School. Design inspired by workshops with the students.

Stainless Steel, Ancaster Boulder

Stainless Steel and Copper.

Commission for Local Primary School.

Entrance sculpture for a local school, created out of 316 stainless steel featuring the schools values in the various languages spoken at the school.

‘Courage’

Commissioned as a memorial to a student at North Kesteven School in Lincoln.

Created in collaboration with Spitfire Forge

Private Commission for a retired Vulcan Pilot.

Stainless Steel

Public art Commission for Transported. Inspired by workshops with the community. Made out of galvanised Steel, Located outside the Geoff Moulder Leisure center in Boston uk.

PROJECT BLOG

Stainless Steel and gold leaf

Stainless steel on slate base.

Stallion Sculpture in 316 Stainless Steel.

SOLD

Commission for Local primary school.
Influenced by designs and models created by the students to represent their parents in the forces.

Commission for Tesco Lincoln, designed by local student (pictured)

Holton Le Clay Village Hall Sign

Stainless and galvanised steel

Pigmy goat sculptures for private collectors garden.