Gift proposal
Object summary
Thomas Jefferson, 2026
George Petrides (b. Athens, 1964)
Made in the artist’s New York studio through clay modeling, digital sculpting, and fabrication in recycled PETG, with brass and bronze metal coatings and a protective clear coat.
Proposed donor: the artist. Both versions are completed and ready as of September 2026. The selected version is identified in the gift agreement.
| Specification | Interior | Exterior |
|---|---|---|
| Sculpture height | 85 cm, excluding base | 100 cm, excluding base |
| Sculpture width | 80 cm | Approximately 100 cm |
| Sculpture weight | Approximately 20 kg | Approximately 30 kg |
| Proposed base | Painted, ballasted plywood cylinder 110 cm H × 55 cm diameter | Reinforced concrete cylinder 120 cm exposed H × approximately 65 cm diameter |
Studio specifications. Weights are planning estimates excluding the base. Final measurements, sculpture depth, mounting details, and the selected work’s documentation are confirmed during review. Base dimensions are conceptual.
Proposed gift terms
The proposal is an outright gift of the sculpture for public display with artist credit. The allocation of costs and practical responsibilities is set out below.
The intended location, display and credit arrangements, and final inscription are agreed with the recipient. Acceptance and transfer are subject to the institution’s review and written agreement with the artist.
Permissions for photography, publication, and other image use are addressed separately in that agreement. The proposed gift of the physical sculpture does not specify a transfer of copyright.
Studio and recipient responsibilities
| Stage | Petrides Public Sculpture | Recipient institution |
|---|---|---|
| Confirm the placement | Confirm the donation arrangements and discuss the proposed setting. | Confirm acceptance, select the 85 cm indoor or 100 cm outdoor version, and secure institutional approvals. |
| Prepare the sculpture | Provide the donated sculpture ready for collection at the New York studio; coordinate collection timing. | Appoint an art transport company and coordinate collection. |
| Transport and insurance | Provide available artwork information needed for coordination. | Arrange and pay for packing and transport, insurance, customs, and applicable shipping or import arrangements. |
| Construct the base | Provide base-construction and installation instructions. | Build the base and commission local engineering review where required, including outdoor foundations and anchoring. |
| Prepare the site | Provide siting guidance. | Arrange site access, lighting, landscaping, and any associated works. |
| Plaque and installation | Coordinate wording and provide installation guidance. | Approve and fabricate the plaque, credit the artist, and arrange installation. |
| Ongoing care | Provide care instructions and outdoor coating specifications. | Display and care for the work, including the maintenance appropriate to the setting. |
Collection and scheduling
Collection from the New York studio follows institutional acceptance and confirmation of transport and installation arrangements. Allow approximately six weeks for fabrication of a curved bronze plaque, subject to the fabricator’s schedule.
Valuation and insurance requirements are agreed during review. Any independent appraisal required by the recipient or insurer should be arranged before transfer.
Commemorative inscription
The institution and studio can adapt the wording to the placement. The example below commemorates the 250th anniversary. Final wording and design are subject to institutional approval.
Thomas Jefferson
1743–1826
Principal Author of the Declaration of Independence
First Secretary of State
Third President of the United States
Presented to [Recipient Institution]
by George Petrides, Sculptor
In commemoration of the 250th anniversary
of the Declaration of Independence
2026
Draft commemorative text. The recipient name and gift date are to be confirmed before fabrication.
Review enquiries
For additional photography, condition and ownership documentation, identifying details, coating specifications, mounting information, or an inspection of the selected sculpture, contact the studio.