Figurative sculpture is sculpture that is based on
the human or animal figure, but NOT that of any one particular human or animal. Figurative sculpture 3D sculpture (as opposed to Silhouette) that is clearly inspired by the real world and range from a almost identical reproduction to a representational interpretation of a human or animal. If you can identify the subject, it is probably Figurative instead of Abstract.
Note: Consumer mass-market items commonly made of plaster, plastic, concrete, etc., such as garden/patio sculptures are prohibited. The sculpture must be permanent and free to the public.
Figurative sculptures may be as close to the real world as:
From WMCKC2 We Shall Never Forget - Pennsauken, NJ
to slightly figurative:
From WMC6GG The Family - Tacoma, WA
to a more abstracted figurative:
From WMBKJ1 Tai Chi Single Whip - St. Louis, MO
A Waymark in the Figurative Public Sculpture category must meet the following criteria:
1. This category is for the Waymarking of public figurative sculpture found outdoors or in the lobby of public spaces that do not charge admission. Sculpture inside an Art Museum or art gallery should not be posted here. Sculptures that are in security areas such as airport/train/bus/ship terminal secure areas which require the person to have a ticket or are not open to the public may not be posteded here.
2. Figurative Public Sculpture is not of a 'known' person, figure or animal. These pieces could be submitted to:
- Statues of Historic Figures or...
- Famous Fictional Figures or...
- Dead Poets' Society Memorials or...
- Musician Statues or...
- Statues of Religious Figures which includes angels, Greek or Roman Gods, Buddha, other Deities, etc.
- Realistic Object Sculptures for pieces that are not human or animal.
These are not all of the categories dedicated to 'known' people or animals; just some of the larger ones to help you find the correct category.
- NOTE: The Figurative Public Sculpture category does accept sculptures of "Ideals" such as Justice, Liberty, Columbia, Peace, etc., as long as the piece is NOT a specific ['known'] mythological god such as Eirene, Goddess of Peace.
- NOTE: Figurative Public Sculpture which is part of a monument may be Waymarked. An example would be WMCRQY Soldier and Sailor on World War I Memorial – Matlock Bath, UK.
3. Any object which was previously alive and now dead and as a result was stuffed, preserved or somehow made into a permanent fixture is not eligible (June 8, 2009).
4. Architectural sculptures, such as niche pieces, bas relief or gargoyles should be waymarked in those respective categories. Non-animals such as insects and dinosaurs have their own category. Funerary sculpture (part of a headstone, crypt, etc.) should be Waymarked elsewhere. However, a figurative sculpture that is independent of a tomb found in a cemetery may be Waymarked here. For example: Memory: Marshall Field Monument - Graceland Cemetery, Chicago, IL.
5. If the Waymark can be posted in another category, that is where it belongs first. For example, a lion sculpture would go in the Lion Statues category; a bear in the Bear Statues category or a carved tree in Outside Wooden Display Carvings category. If it is a spectacular piece that would add to this category, we may list it here as well even if it is in another category.
6. A minimum of two clear photographs personally taken by you of the Figurative Public Sculpture and a photo of the plaque (if there is one). We always appreciate and encourage additional photos. For instance, close-ups and photos from different angles greatly enhance the Waymark.
7. The Long Description must include a description of the sculpture and the location of the sculpture. If you can find any information about the piece and/or the artist, that would be wonderful to include. You may include the text on the plaque (if there is one) if there is information about the sculpture. Please cite your sources. An English translation is not required, but always appreciated.
Here are a few more examples of Figurative Public Sculptures for your review:
- WMCX0J Woman - Toronto, ON
- WMCR1K I Too Know the Eagle - Denver, CO
- WMCF2K 23rd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument - Gettysburg, PA
- WMCBXP Secrets - San Jose, CA
- WMCTFQ Pi - Toronto, ON
- WMCM9Y Swimmer's Arm - El Nadador, Vigo, Spain