Sculpture: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a three-dimensional artwork created by shaping or combining materials such as stone, metal, or wood. It is often used in a broader sense to describe any large or intricate art piece.

• The museum has an impressive collection of modern sculptures
• The artist is renowned for her abstract sculptures

Refers to a large, often life-sized or larger, sculpture representing a person or animal. Statues are commonly displayed in public places, parks, or as monuments.

• The statue of the famous general stands in the town square
• Tourists were taking pictures in front of the statue of liberty

This word often refers to the act of shaping a material like wood, stone, or ice by cutting away portions of it. It can also describe the resulting artwork, especially when the details are fine and intricate.

• He spent hours perfecting the intricate carvings on the wooden door
• The ice carving competition attracts many talented artists

Typically used to describe small statues or models, often representing people or animals, made from materials such as ceramic, plastic, or metal. These are usually used for decoration or as collectibles.

• She has a collection of porcelain animal figurines on her shelf
• The figurine of the knight stood proudly on the desk

Use 'sculpture' when referring to a three-dimensional art piece typically made from materials like stone, metal, or wood. Suitable for formal or specific discussions about art.

• The museum has a new marble sculpture on display.
• She spent months creating a sculpture for the art show.

This is a general term that encompasses all kinds of art, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more. Appropriate for casual or broad discussions about art.

• The gallery features various types of artwork.
• His artwork is gaining a lot of attention.

A very general term often used to refer to individual works of art or objects in a collection. Suitable for both casual and formal contexts, focusing more on the item itself rather than its artistic value.

• This piece is my favorite in the collection.
• He bought a beautiful piece at the antique shop.

This word emphasizes the act of creating something and is not limited to art. Use it to talk about anything that has been made, invented, or brought into being, often in a creative or innovative sense.

• Her latest creation will be displayed at the exhibition.
• The artist’s new creation took years to complete.

Used when referring to a three-dimensional art piece made from materials like stone, metal, or wood. It signifies an artistic creation.

• The museum displayed ancient Greek sculptures
• He spent years creating a magnificent marble sculpture

Implies the act of cutting or engraving a material to create a design or figure. Often associated with wood, stone, or even food items like pumpkins.

• She learned to carve intricate patterns into wood
• They carved their initials into the tree trunk

A general term used to describe giving form to something. It can be used broadly in various contexts, including art, design, and manufacturing.

• She shaped the wire into a heart
• The potter shaped the clay with his hands

Refers to shaping a malleable material, such as clay or dough, by hand or with a mold. Often used in the context of ceramics, pottery, or baking.

• The artist molded the clay into a beautiful vase
• He molded the bread dough before baking