F.A.Q.
1. Q: Exactly how do you pronounce ‘Chappell’?
A: Like the word ‘apple’.
2. Q: Just how many artists named Chris Chappell are there? There seem to be a few.
A: I’m not sure if there’s something about the name or whether we’re all Pisces, but there seem to be quite a few. I came to realize this when I started building my website and happened upon a chap(pell) in Texas who paints. Small world.
As far as I know, I’m the only sculptor who makes the art that I envision. Also, I am not the Chris Chappell who plays for the New York Rangers. But I’m flattered if you were confused.
3. Q: Are the guitars you smash really the instruments of their namesakes?
A: Short answer-definitely not. Long answer-kind of. There is nothing inside me that could possibly bring myself to destroy an historical instrument, no matter how great it would look. But I choose my instruments carefully, seeking the exact model and style that the artists used in their heyday. Prior to deconstruction, each instrument undergoes a two week artificial aging process where an often completely virgin guitar emerges as a forty year old antique. Various staining methods, both oil and saline based, are employed to obtain a stunningly realistic recreation of an instrument years in the making.
4. Q: I see you have a sculpture with an iPod dock in it. What’s up with that?
A: ”The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, The Beautiful, And The Damned” is one of my favorites. It is comprised of an electric guitar set upon steel and maple to a riot shield. The Apple Universal dock supports all iPod/iPhone devices (except Shuffle) and will charge them when plugged in.
But there’s more…
The best part comes with AirPlay, Apple’s proprietary software enabling any iPod Touch or iPhone to stream their iTunes library to wireless AirPlay speakers. This means wireless music or video streaming from this sculpture, all through an Apple remote control (included). I have also gilded the dock in 22 karat gold leaf for that little something extra.
Rock on.
5. Q: Aren’t you a musician, too?
A: It may come as a surprise that I can play the guitar as well as smash it, but there was a time when I thought of nothing but making music. I lived in Hollywood, played in clubs with nefarious bands, made two albums that are now on iTunes, and can still fit into my custom leather pants. But I never could feel as satisfied with making music as much as making art, and the guitar fell silent for years. I’m trying to make more of an effort to bring music back into my life, though.
And, yes, I would LOVE to hear your band.
6. Q: I think your work is fantastic. How do I buy something?
A: This happens to be my favorite of all the Frequently Asked Questions and I would love to address it.
Miniature Guitar Sculptures
If you’re interested in purchasing a Miniature Guitar sculpture, please click on the “Store” page at the top right of my website. This will take you to a link to Etsy, the keeper of my digital store. From there you may browse to your heart’s content and purchase with confidence using PayPal.
Large Sculptures
If it’s a larger sculpture you’re after, please email me at chrischappell@chrischappell.cc. Some sculptures need special considerations for shipping and handling to ensure you receive your artwork exactly as it appears. Also, price lists for large sculptures are available upon request. My website is PayPal certified.
Custom Artwork
Do you have an idea bursting in your head and need a sculptor to make it a reality? I enjoy doing custom work, particularly with adventurous and challenging patrons. Whatever it takes.
7. Q: Are you on Facebook?
A: No.
8. Q: Who are your favorite artists/influences?
A: While this is a great question, I feel that it would be best addressed in my blog, given the richness of the subject.
I could go on all night with that one.
