At Metropolitan Galleries, we take great pride in our ability to bring history to life through the creation of stunning custom bronze sculptures. Recently, we had the distinct honor of producing life-size statues of four esteemed former Governors of Kentucky: James Garrard, William Bradley, Robert Letcher, and William Owsley. These remarkable sculptures, meticulously crafted by our talented portraiture artist Dianne Ellis, now grace the front of the Garrard County Justice Center, serving as a tribute to the rich heritage and outstanding leadership of these influential individuals.

Capturing the Essence of Leadership: The process began with the collaborative efforts of our team and Dianne Ellis, who skillfully translated the desired renderings of all sides of the statues. With unwavering attention to detail, Dianne meticulously brought each Governor’s likeness to life on paper, ensuring that their unique characteristics and dignified presence were accurately portrayed.

From Clay to Bronze: Once the drawings were finalized, our skilled sculptors embarked on the transformation of these two-dimensional renderings into three-dimensional masterpieces. Employing the traditional method of lost wax bronze casting, the statues took shape through the careful sculpting of clay. The talented hands of our artisans deftly molded and refined the clay statues, capturing the essence of each Governor’s stature and expression. This crucial step allowed for meticulous adjustments to ensure the utmost accuracy and authenticity.

The Transformation of Lost Wax Bronze Casting: After the completion of the clay statues, the process transitioned to lost wax bronze casting, a time-honored technique revered for its ability to produce exquisite bronze sculptures. The clay statues served as the foundation for creating detailed molds, which were then used to cast the statues in bronze. The molten bronze, poured into the molds, assumed the shape and intricacies of the clay sculptures, preserving every nuance and expression of the Governors.

Preserving History: The life-size bronze sculptures of James Garrard, William Bradley, Robert Letcher, and William Owsley now stand proudly in front of the Garrard County Justice Center. These magnificent tributes not only honor the esteemed individuals who once held the position of Governor but also serve as reminders of Kentucky’s rich political heritage and the dedication of these leaders to public service.

Conclusion: Metropolitan Galleries is honored to have been entrusted with the task of immortalizing the legacy of four prior Governors of Kentucky. Through the remarkable skill and artistry of our portraiture artist Dianne Ellis, and the time-honored technique of lost wax bronze casting, these life-size statues now stand as lasting testaments to the influential figures who shaped Kentucky’s history. As we continue to create custom bronze sculptures that celebrate the past and inspire the future, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of artistry and history that adorns the Garrard County Justice Center in Kentucky.

If you would like to learn more about our process or explore the possibility of creating your own custom bronze sculpture, we welcome you to contact us at Metropolitan Galleries. Our team of experts is ready to bring your vision to life and create a timeless work of art that pays tribute to the stories and individuals close to your heart.

We hope you visit the Garrard County Justice Center and witness the grandeur of these extraordinary Governor sculptures firsthand.


Metropolitan Galleries, renowned for their artistic creations, undertook a special project to craft two exquisite bronze sculptures depicting a boy and a girl in a pledge. These remarkable sculptures have become familiar sights to visitors of Sunset Beach in North Carolina, proudly standing beside the American Flag within the picturesque Town Park.

Within this enchanting park, where beauty meets patriotism, one can also find the esteemed Veteran’s Memorial. This memorial holds deep significance as it was dedicated on November 11, 2015, during a poignant Veteran’s Day Ceremony. The Committee to Honor America’s Veterans approached Metropolitan Galleries with the honorable task of creating two bronze sculptures, embodying the spirit of pledging, to be placed within this revered park.

Metropolitan Galleries, known for their attention to detail, engaged their talented portraiture artist Dianne Ellis to meticulously sketch the desired sculptures. These intricate renderings served as a guiding light throughout the process of sculpting the clay molds. Several months of dedicated craftsmanship later, the final bronze sculptures were completed, ready to find their permanent abode at the cherished Town Park of Sunset Beach.

Now, as you stroll through the park, the sight of these captivating bronze sculptures will undoubtedly stir emotions and evoke a sense of unity and devotion. Metropolitan Galleries’ contribution to this esteemed location stands as a testament to their commitment to artistry and their deep appreciation for honoring America’s veterans.