Art in the Open: The Best Materials for Outdoor Sculptures

Outdoor sculptures are impressive works of art that can beautify outdoor spaces and create a special atmosphere. They are robust enough to withstand a wide range of weather conditions and add a unique touch to any private garden, park, or public space.

Choosing the right material plays a crucial role in the design of outdoor sculptures. There are various options, each with its own advantages.

We would like to introduce you to four of the most popular materials: stainless steel , bronze , granite , concrete, cast stone, natural stone, plastic, ceramic, glass, terracotta and wood .

In this article, we will examine each of these materials in more detail and explore their advantages and disadvantages. Stay with us and be inspired by the diverse possibilities that outdoor sculptures offer.

Outdoor sculptures and garden figures – advantages of artistic statues for outdoors

Outdoor sculptures are a fascinating form of art in the open air . They not only serve as a decorative element in gardens and outdoor areas, but also have a multitude of advantages.

These sculptures are available in various materials, all distinguished by their durability and elegance. Bronze is a popular choice, a metal that is both robust and aesthetically pleasing. Furthermore, outdoor sculptures in the form of a Buddha very popular, as they can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere.

One of the most significant advantages of outdoor sculptures is their ability to enhance outdoor spaces and create a unique atmosphere. They bring art and nature together, thus beautifying the garden or outdoor area.

Furthermore, they offer a way to express one's individual style and give the outdoor area a personal touch. In addition to their aesthetic function, outdoor sculptures can also serve as eye-catchers and draw attention to specific areas in the garden.

A well-placed sculpture can draw the viewer's eye and spark interest. It can also serve as a conversation starter and impress guests.

Furthermore, outdoor sculptures are available in various sizes and shapes, from small decorations to monumental statues. This allows everyone to find ideal sculpture for their garden or outdoor space love sculpture , or a representative Greek statue: weather-resistant sculptures offer a multitude of ways to express one's own style and taste.

What is the difference between a plastic sculpture and a sculpture?

A sculpture and a three-dimensional work of art are two distinct forms of visual art that differ in several ways. A sculpture typically refers to a three-dimensional artwork made from a malleable material such as clay, wax, plaster, or plastic.

It can be created either by modeling or casting. Sculptures often have a realistic representation of people, animals, or objects and can feature detailed textures and fine details.

sculpture refers to any three-dimensional artwork that represents a spatial composition . Unlike plastic art, sculptures can be made from various materials such as wood, stone, metal, or even recycled materials.

Another difference lies in the function and context of these two art forms. Sculptures are often considered independent works of art and can be displayed indoors or outdoors. Sculptures, on the other hand, can be part of a larger installation or presented in public spaces such as parks or art galleries.

The best materials for outdoor sculptures

To ensure that your garden sculpture is both aesthetically pleasing and durable , choosing the right material is crucial.

Here are the best materials suitable for outdoor sculptures.

One option that stands out for its durability and elegance is stainless steel . This material is rust-resistant and withstands the elements, making it perfect for outdoor use. Stainless steel sculptures have a modern and futuristic look and blend harmoniously into their surroundings.

Granite is another strong and natural material for outdoor sculptures. It is resistant to weathering and can remain outdoors for years without noticeable change. Granite sculptures possess a timeless beauty and lend a touch of elegance to the garden. Its natural veining gives the sculptures a unique aesthetic.

Concrete is a modern and robust material, ideally suited for monumental sculptures. It can be cast in various shapes and offers diverse design possibilities. Concrete sculptures can range from abstract to realistic and lend a modern and contemporary touch to the garden.

If you prefer a warm and natural look, wood the perfect choice. Wooden sculptures blend beautifully into green surroundings and lend the garden an organic feel. However, wood requires regular maintenance and some protection to prevent weather damage. Wooden sculptures can be made from various types of wood and are often hand-carved, giving them a unique character.

When choosing the material for your garden sculpture, it's crucial to consider your personal preferences and the style of your garden. Each material has its own advantages and design possibilities. Select the material that best suits your needs and the desired look to create a stunning outdoor sculpture.

But let's go into a little more detail…

Stainless steel – a durable and elegant material for outdoor sculptures

Stainless steel is an outstanding material when it comes to garden statues. Its durability and elegance make it a popular choice for artists who want to give their outdoor works a special shine.

Compared to other materials like bronze or concrete, stainless steel offers a multitude of advantages. First and foremost, it is extremely durable and resistant to the elements. Rain, snow, or sunlight cannot harm the material, so the sculptures retain their original luster for many years.

Furthermore, stainless steel is also very easy to care for . With minimal effort, dirt or dust can be removed, and the sculptures look like new again.

Another positive aspect of stainless steel is its elegant appearance . The material exudes modernity and style and can therefore be a real asset to any garden or public space.

Stainless steel is ideal for all gardens, but especially for coastal areas. Copper, oxidized steel, and bronze interact with the elements to age gracefully. Iconic verdigris patina is a popular finish often seen on metal artwork and traditional garden statues. This popular finish is durable and timeless, complementing any style of outdoor space.

British sculptor and outdoor statue specialist David Harber watches in the tranquil town of Aston, England .

He supplements his considerations regarding the choice of materials as follows:

High-gloss polished stainless steel is a popular material for garden sculptures because its surface can reflect the surrounding garden. It adds a modern touch to any outdoor space. More traditional favorites include garden sculptures made of copper, oxidized steel, bronze, and stone

Whether abstract or figurative, stainless steel sculptures blend seamlessly into their surroundings and attract attention. Furthermore, stainless steel is in various colors and surface finishes , allowing artists to give their works an individual touch.

This abstract sculpture of stylized flames is available with an attractive rust patina. Mounting is effortless. A glass shade in the center allows for atmospheric lighting by candlelight.

Another advantage of stainless steel is its versatility . It can be easily worked and shaped, allowing artists to give free rein to their ideas.

From abstract sculptures to larger-than-life figures, anything is possible with stainless steel. The possibilities are virtually limitless, and the material is suitable for both small decorative objects and imposing garden sculptures.

Anyone looking for a weatherproof and timeless option to add a special touch to their garden or public space should definitely consider stainless steel sculptures.

Bronze – natural patina

Bronze statues have been produced for thousands of years in cultures around the world for both decorative purposes and religious ceremonies. Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of copper, with tin added for strength and zinc and lead for color variation depending on the intended use or desired effect.

Bronze statues weather naturally over time , becoming unique works of art that retain their original form.

However, they can develop an even more beautiful patina if left untreated outdoors in rain or sunshine for an extended period of time, giving them an aged appearance reminiscent of past centuries when bronze was first used extensively worldwide in sculptures and works of art.

Bronze casting using the lost-wax process

When the term "art casting" is used in the context of durable, high-quality outdoor sculptures, it usually refers to bronze casting .

In the lost-wax casting process, also known as cire perdue, the original model is precisely cast in metal, including the finest details such as fingerprints and delicate lines. For important artworks, whether realistic or abstract, this is very important.

Bronze feels special and can be transformed into many colours and surface textures through various methods such as polishing, grinding, and patination, ranging from shiny gold to dark brown or vibrant turquoise.

Bronze in this manufacturing process is strong and allows for the implementation of dynamic, delicate forms that would not be possible with other materials like stone or cement. The metal is also less prone to breakage from impacts than hard stone castings because it is more elastic.

Aluminum – lightweight and dimensionally stable

Aluminum is a fantastic material for outdoor use and costs only a fraction of copper alloys like brass and bronze. It is weather-resistant, relatively lightweight, and heat-resistant.

COR-TEN steel – corrosion protection with a velvety rust patina

There is a product called COR-TEN steel , which is often seen in outdoor sculptures. It has a layer on the outside that oxidizes and looks almost like velvet, but the oxidation only occurs on the surface and never compromises the integrity of the structure.

Corten steel undergoes the same rusting process as any other carbon steel when exposed to alternating humidity and dryness. However, over time, this process transforms into a dense patina that protects the material from further corrosion. The original orange-brown color gives way to a lighter and later a darker shade of brown.

The rate of change and the final color depend on the climate region and air quality at the installation site. Sulfur-rich atmospheres can accelerate the oxidation process and produce a darker patina. Similarly, alternating wet and dry conditions promote oxidation.

Thanks to the corrosion protection properties of COR-TEN steel, the effort required for maintenance and corrosion protection measures is reduced. This can result in significant savings in maintenance costs over the entire product life cycle.

An alternative way to achieve a similar rust patina is to use unalloyed steel

After it has rusted for a while, you can spray it with a rust converter, which will turn it black and convert the iron oxide (rust) into something chemically more stable.

copper

Copper for outdoor sculptures and garden figures impresses as a material choice due to its unique, beautiful patina and good malleability, resulting in lovingly crafted figures.

Bronze is often used for sculptures. However, pure copper has advantages in artistic design and colouring.

Copper changes its appearance through contact with air, which excites many gardening enthusiasts. Fresh or polished copper has a reddish-gold colour that is warm and bright. It looks noble and stands out immediately. When pure copper is outside, it forms a strong protective layer called patina over time. The colour gradient starts slowly dark (brown-black) and ends with the well-known green (basic copper sulphates and carbonates).

Note: Patina should not be confused with verdigris . Verdigris forms when copper acetate comes into contact with acetic acid and dissolves in water.

Copper is softer than bronze, but also tougher and very ductile. This is an important advantage for techniques such as:

• When shaping or hammering copper sheets, large, three-dimensional forms with little material are created.
• Copper can be very well welded or soldered to connect complex structures such as fine plants, animals, or abstract forms.

Copper does not rust because it is naturally corrosion-resistant. The protective layer on top of the material ensures that it lasts for many years outdoors without additional coating.

Copper objects, which are processed as sheet metal or wire sculptures, are also significantly lighter than massive bronze or stone cast figures. This makes transportation, installation, and setting up in the garden easier.

An ecological side effect: Copper can be completely recycled without losing quality (true recycling). That makes it a sustainable material choice.

Copper vs. Bronze

Comparison (copper vs. bronze for sculptures)	Copper (Cu)	Bronze (Cu-Sn alloy)
Material hardness	Relatively soft, very stretchy	Harder, more wear-resistant
processing	Ideal for repoussé work and delicate soldered constructions (sheet metal, wire)	Ideal for casting processes (lost-wax casting process)
durability	Very high, protected by patina	Maximum strength, especially in the maritime sector
aesthetics	Characteristic, often green patina (after a long time)	Variable patina colors, higher surface hardness

Concrete – modern, robust and cost-effective

Concrete is a popular material for outdoor sculptures because it offers a modern aesthetic while also robust durability .

Concrete sculptures are available in a wide range of designs, from abstract shapes and fantasy creatures like dragons, goblins, and dwarfs to realistic figures or motifs from Greek, Egyptian, or Roman mythology.

The flexibility of concrete allows artists to realize their creative visions and create unique works. Another outstanding advantage of concrete sculptures is their resistance to the elements. Concrete is a weather-resistant material that can withstand even heavy rain, intense sunlight, and other environmental conditions.

This allows concrete sculptures to retain their beauty outdoors for many years and perfectly complement their surroundings. Furthermore, concrete is a relatively inexpensive material compared to other options like bronze or stainless steel. This makes concrete sculptures affordable and accessible to a wider audience.

Art lovers can high-quality and impressive concrete sculptures for their garden or outdoor area without breaking their budget.

Granite – strong and close to nature

Granite is a strong and natural material, ideally suited for outdoor sculptures. With its impressive hardness and durability, granite is an excellent material for creating figures and statues for outdoor display. These qualities make it particularly attractive for artworks exposed to the elements and requiring longevity.

Granite also offers a wide range of colours and textures, allowing artists to bring their visions and ideas to life. Although granite can be considered a relatively traditional material, it can still convey a modern aesthetic and complement contemporary artworks.

Unlike other materials such as bronze or metal, granite requires minimal maintenance and remains in pristine condition for years. This makes it perfect for outdoor use and as a lasting decoration in gardens and outdoor areas. Furthermore, granite adds a natural and organic aesthetic to outdoor spaces.

The combination of its robust structure and unique patterns and colors makes each granite sculpture an impressive focal point in the garden. Whether as a Buddhist statue, an abstract garden figure, or simply as a decorative element – ​​granite brings a timeless beauty and elegance to any outdoor space.

Cast stone – extremely stable and heat-resistant

Stone casting is currently the most commonly used material for the production of sculptures.

Cast stone statues consist of a mixture of Portland cement, aggregates such as sandstone or quartzite, water, pigments, and additives. The varying fineness of the components and the addition of color pigments give each figure an individual appearance.

Once the mixture is combined, it is poured into a mold made of clay, plastic, or wood and then allowed to harden. Afterward, any imperfections can be corrected and the sculpture finished. The simple and quick production of cast stone sculptures makes them more cost-effective compared to natural stone sculptures .

Unlike regular concrete, which contains air bubbles that can cause the material to crack or crumble over time, cast stone sculptures do not contain air bubbles. Therefore, they cannot chip or flake off over time like concrete.

 

Stone cast is also much more heat-resistant than normal concrete due to its higher compression rates, so it does not warp at extreme temperatures or get affected by ultraviolet rays from direct sunlight. Stone cast remains stable (frost-resistant) even at very low temperatures of up to -25°C or even -30°C with proper production and processing (ideal mixing ratio of cement and sand with little water) and does not crack. This means that it can stand outside all year round without being covered.

Furthermore, cast stone concrete is extremely stable and can withstand strong pressure from wind or water without crumbling , as can happen with concrete.

Cast stone is a strong and heavy material. The heavy weight of the sculpture ensures that it stands stable and is protected from storms, wind, and impacts.

Last but not least, cast stone is resistant to UV rays. This reduces the fading or blotchiness of the figure over the years.

Natural stone – elaborate craftsmanship

Natural stone sculptures are not cast like stone casting, but rather chiselled from a single block, making each piece a unique work of art. The production therefore requires significantly more effort.

Basalt , sandstone , river stone, lava stone , and especially marble are natural stones favored by artists for their sculptures. This traditional technique was already used by Renaissance artists. However, nowadays, sculptures made of natural stone due to the greater effort involved.

Other types of natural stone used include:

• Limestone : Excellent for outdoor sculptures, but exhibits cracks and breaks along the grain.
• Sandstone : A natural stone that can be shaped with hand tools. Well suited for reliefs and 3D objects .
• Alabaster : a soft stone that cracks easily and can be damaged quickly. Cracks can be repaired with glue and clay. Small objects can be intricately carved.
• Soapstone : A simple stone for cutting and working.

Wood – warm and natural

Wood is a warm and natural material, ideally suited for outdoor sculptures. It gives the sculptures an organic and charming appearance and blends seamlessly into the natural environment of the garden.

The use of wood for outdoor sculptures allows artists to create a wide variety of shapes and designs , from raw, organic works to detailed figures.

Another advantage of wood is its durability. With proper care, wood can remain outdoors for years without losing its shape or color.

However, it is essential to treat the wood regularly and protect it from the elements to ensure a long lifespan for the sculpture.

Wooden sculptures create an inviting and relaxing space and lend the garden a special atmosphere. In no time at all, you can create a pleasant place to linger and unwind.

Marble – living antiquity

Marble statues have been used in various sculptures since antiquity, offering beauty and durability. Marble is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcite, although it may also contain other minerals.

Marble statues withstand the elements outdoors better than many other materials , while retaining their original stunning appearance over time.

The historically inspired and exclusive look of marble statues has kept them fashionable for centuries, and they are still a popular choice today.

Furthermore, marble is resistant to stains and discoloration .

Artificial marble

Artificial marble is a special type of engineered stone produced using a casting process that resembles marble. It is primarily made up of small pieces of marble (often comprising more than 90% of the material) mixed with an adhesive (usually polyester resin or cement).

Experts in outdoor sculptures and garden decorations clarify that artificial marble has unique advantages, but it also comes with a few limitations for outdoor use.

Artificial marble resembles real marble in a stunning way, but offers more possibilities in design. Artificial marble has the elegant texture, veining, and satin finish of natural marble, thanks to the use of marble chips. This creates a noble and traditional impression, often associated with ancient statues.

With artificial marble, however, the design can be much better controlled during the manufacturing process, unlike natural stone, where the grain is random. You can add colours and precisely determine the size of the marble grains to achieve a specific colour and texture that is rare in natural stone (for example, extremely pure white).

Artificial marble can reproduce complex details precisely and efficiently, which would be very expensive and time-consuming with real marble. Artificial marble is less prone to breakage than natural marble, as the resin makes the material more flexible and resilient. This reduces the risk of breakage during transport and installation.

Terracotta – a touch of the Italian Renaissance

Add a touch of grandeur and a Mediterranean ambience Impruneta (Italy).

These originated in the Italian Renaissance and were promoted by the Medici in their magnificent Renaissance gardens.

Long axes, grottoes, fountains, and statues were used to emphasize the beauty of nature. The artists of this period created sculptures in idealized classical forms, mostly of gods, who were traditionally depicted nude.

In addition to classic terracotta flower pots and oval terracotta vessels, decorative terracotta statues, sculptures, and figures in antique forms and motifs are particularly popular for adding a special touch to a garden or park.

Terracotta figures are extremely robust and durable when properly cared for. Their flexible malleability allows them to be shaped into different sizes and forms, enabling a wide variety of artistic expression.

The ability to paint or glaze terracotta figures adds further color and texture. However, the value of a terracotta figure can vary greatly depending on its age, condition, and rarity, which is why some collectors prefer older or more unique pieces, while others favor modern interpretations.

Overall, terracotta figures can be a wonderful addition to any art collection, home decor or garden, however, it is crucial to choose pieces that match your personal taste and style.

Besides figures of gods and angels, allegories serving as symbols are particularly popular. A classic example is the depiction of the seasons: Primavera, Estate, Autunno, and Inverno. Busts, lion figures, and Asian warriors are also popular terracotta motifs.

Plastics – unlimited variety of shapes and colors

Modern sculptures are sometimes made from various plastics such as acrylic or PVC. Plastics offer immense freedom in terms of shape and color .

Statues made of plastics generally cost less than those made of other materials. However, they typically require moderate weather year-round to achieve a reasonable lifespan. So if you live in a place with hot summers or cold winters, you'll likely need to bring plastic garden sculptures indoors when the weather conditions aren't so ideal; otherwise, they may fade, warp, and possibly crack.

This angel figurine on a sphere is made of durable fiberglass and artificial turf. Thanks to the use of high-quality materials, the topiary angel figurine can remain outdoors permanently and boasts low-maintenance and long-lasting qualities.

If you want durable material, look for thick plastic that can withstand extreme temperatures. It will cost more than lightweight plastic, but should last longer.

Synthetic resin / Polyresin

(Art) resin is another option. This hard plastic substance can be easily moulded into a variety of shapes and can be much more durable than other types of plastic. These outdoor statues are likely to cost more than less elaborate plastic models. However, they can still fade, warp, and crack.

Casting resins such as polyresin (an artificial stone based on synthetic resin and stone powder) are also referred to as “art casting” and offer specific advantages for more price-conscious segments:

Advantage	Description
Lightweight	Significantly lighter than stone or bronze, which transport and easy repositioning in the garden.
Cost efficiency	Due to the simple casting process and the material price, production is significantly cheaper than metal or natural stone sculptures.
Variety of colors	Resins can be colored throughout before casting or subsequently painted very easily and permanently, which bright colors and modern designs .
Hollow casting	Simple production of hollow bodies, which further reduces weight while maintaining good strength.

Ceramics and glass – fragile beauty

Glass and ceramic statues can look stunning by catching sunlight and adding a touch of fragile beauty to your garden.

Glass statues can be solid or hollow. Ceramics can be porous and non-porous. The porous type absorbs water and holds it; during freezing and thawing, they may crack, so they should be protected from the elements in winter.

Regardless of whether you choose glass or ceramic, you should place them in a sheltered spot and bring them indoors before the weather gets too cold.

Buy stylish garden sculptures – inspiration and recommendations to browse

A true variety of ideas, suggestions, and inspirations for modern and stylish sculptures for your garden can be found in our online gallery. This is constantly being expanded and updated. So it's worth checking back every now and then.

How much do outdoor sculptures cost?

Outdoor sculptures vary in price depending on size, material, and complexity. The choice of material also affects the price.

A small sculpture made of plastic can for as little as 50 euros , while a monumental sculpture made of bronze can cost several thousand euros

The price of a sculpture also depends on the artist's reputation . Works by renowned artists generally cost more than works by lesser-known artists.

Another factor influencing the price is the intricate design and level of detail in the sculpture. Generally, the more complex and elaborate the design, the higher the price.

Furthermore, the location or intended use of the sculpture can also influence the price. Sculptures designed for public spaces or for special occasions such as exhibitions or trade fairs may be more expensive than those intended for private use or as interior decoration.

It also makes a significant difference whether the piece is an exclusive one-of-a-kind item, a commissioned work, or a limited edition (so-called multiple). The cheapest options are reproductions without a limit or mass-produced items without attribution to the artist/creator.

Tips for setting up and caring for garden sculptures

Once the sculpture is in place, you should maintain it regularly to ensure it remains in good condition. Make sure the sculpture is cleaned regularly to remove dirt and prevent rust.

Also, conduct regular inspections to check for any damage to the sculpture. Further guidance can be found in our related article: Garden Sculptures – Beauty and Grandeur with Garden Decoration through Art Objects .