Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Selection Work?
The selection committee is made up of 3 independent selectors each year. Works by each artist are presented to the selectors and work is judged on merit and suitability for the exhibition. The work is then marked unselected or selected.
Is It Possible To Meet With Committee Members In The Gardens Before The Exhibition To Discuss Siting Of Work?
The Sculpture in Context committee is made up of a team of voluntary artists who are only present in the gardens for installation and removal of the exhibition. The committee is not employed by the gardens. Artists can liaise with the committee re any queries and these will be dealt with on an individual basis. The site visit is a good opportunity to see the gardens, with the organising committee in attendance to answer any queries you may have.
Do I Need To Insure My Work?
Yes, it is your responsibility to insure your own work. The utmost care will be taken of all works, but neither the Botanic Gardens Management, nor the Organising Committee are responsible for any damage, loss of, or destruction to, any works for any reason whatsoever. Any insurance should therefore be effected by the artist against all risks.
Who Do I Contact If I Have A Query About My Entry?
Any enquiries regarding the exhibition and/or siting should be directed to Sculpture in Context Committee members, and not to the National Botanic Gardens staff – see Contact Us for a list of telephone numbers.
How Do I Know If My Work Has Been Selected?
You will be notified by email as to the status of your entry. All decisions are final. No correspondence or feedback will be given under any circumstances. Please note you will be notified even if work is unselected. Please email info@sculptureincontext.com if you receive no correspondence.
How Much Commission Does Sculpture In Context Take?
All work sold during, and as a result of the exhibition is subject to commission
25% commission on all work up to a value of €15,000 and 20% commission on all work above €15,000.
Please ensure that the price you indicate in the entry form is correct and includes the relevant commission as this is the figure that will appear in the catalogue. Prices will not be changed once the catalogue goes to print
When calculating the selling price of a piece, artists should take into account the delivery costs if a work sells, this can be calculated separately or included in the sale price on the entry form. Artists will be responsible for the delivery of large pieces. Buyers will collect smaller pieces directly from the gallery.
If My Work Is Sold When Will I Be Paid?
Payment will be made as soon as possible after the exhibition ends. This is usually within four weeks.
Who Decides Where Work Will Be Sited?
Proposals may indicate preferred locations but the selection committee/site coordinator may allocate alternative locations. Smaller indoor pieces will be located in the gallery space in the Visitors Centre on the 1st floor.
I Wish To Collect My Work Early, Is This Possible?
Sculpture must not be collected before the end of the exhibition.
I Wish To Hang My Work From A Tree. Am I Allowed?
Work can be secured to trees using padded straps as to not damage any bark or branches. Under no circumstances should work be nailed to trees or hung in any way that would compromise the tree.
Can I Drill Into Walls Or Existing Structures?
No, drilling into walls or structures is not permitted.anywhere in the gardens or glasshouses. Any existing fittings in the gardens may be utilised. Work must be fixed to existing structures in such a way as to avoid any permanent intrusion or damage. Where work requires a plinth (indoor works only), it will be provided.
Will There Be Assistance Available For My Installation?
Some volunteers may be on site to assist but we recommend bringing assistance with you where possible. Please bring whatever tools you will need for the installation with you, for example ladders, drills and spades.
Please note dates for installation and removal of large pieces requiring lifting equipment or assistance.