“I’m Travis and my preferred pronouns are aaarh and grrrh”

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I was born and raised in Texas, the son of two professional wildlife artists.

 

My late mother, Doris Tischler, focused on PaleoArt for a period in my early childhood: illustrations, murals, and sculptures of prehistoric creatures for Museums. From my time in her studio, I remember her life-size Dimetrodon reconstruction was my favorite. I have very fond memories of visiting the University of Texas Paleontology Lab, where Dr. Wann Langston, Dr. Ernie Lundelius, and Bob and Earl working in the prep lab were always so friendly to me (even though the lab was no place for a small child to be running around so excited). It was the most interesting place to visit.

Once, my mother took me to Arizona to meet with Dr. David Gillette. I remember his encouragement about the little plasticine dinosaurs I made while they consulted on a project.

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When I was seven, my father, Tom Tischler, created a life-size bronze Columbian Mammoth at Fair Park for the Dallas Natural History Museum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       My younger brother, Andrew and I playing on my father's Mammoth bronze.

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​​​These were formative experiences and left a lasting impression on me. During that time, I came to realize that making dinosaurs for a living was a real possibility. That passion led me to pursue a career in that field as soon as I graduated high school.

 

Today, I share a studio space with my dad, and we collaborate on each other's projects. My father specializes in endangered species, while I prefer my animals to be extinct. You can check out his work at tomtischler.com . We are in the process of digitally remastering his collection. We cast our work at Pyrology Foundry in Bastrop, Texas. You can check out the foundry process on their website at pyrology.com

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I am excited to share my passion for creating Paleontological Art with you. I collaborate closely with my clients to bring their visions to life, emphasizing open communication and a thorough understanding of their objectives.

 

Whether you're a paleontologist, a museum or an educational facility, I strive to ensure that every project reflects care and precision.

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I value a close working relationship with my clients, maintaining an open dialogue throughout the process.

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It is helpful to provide a concise yet comprehensive project description to ensure clarity and direction when working on a project. The description should include the species, size, pose, any unique anatomical details, the installation site, and your objectives and expectations.

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I begin by sharing a preliminary digital model for your feedback. Working together, we will define, refine, analyze, and correct the concept, much like editing a book. As the design progresses, there will be multiple opportunities for input and approval. 

 

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Here is a time-lapse video of the digital reconstruction of a Coelophysis, showing the sequential stages of development.

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Online access enhances the consultative process, allowing you to conveniently view and comment on the digital model as it develops from the comfort of your computer. I will provide 3D turntable videos and screen capture images for your approval.

 

Once all stakeholders are satisfied with the result, the digital files will be electronically transferred to the foundry for 3D printing and bronze casting. After the final approval of the digital file, no further changes can be made. I have scheduled eight weeks for collaboration and consultation within my production timeline.

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Through a blend of traditional artistry and modern digital technology, I aim to create stunning works that resonate with your vision and stand the test of time.

 

Traditionally, bronze has been the material of choice for public sculptures due to its unique combination of characteristics: it is permanent, robust, and requires little to no maintenance. I cast my sculptures in bronze because it is beautiful and lasts.

 

I encourage public access to my sculptures for three main reasons: 
1. Hands-on interaction provides a richer and more satisfying visitor experience.
2. It eliminates the need for unsightly barriers and space-consuming buffer zones.
3. The patina, the characteristic color and luster that develops over time, is enhanced by the continuous polishing from human hands.

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Bronze sculptures have traditionally been produced using the lost wax casting method, which is complex, lengthy, and costly. However, digital technology offers higher quality while reducing both time and costs, streamlining production by eliminating the need for studio time, enlargement, molding, and wax pattern production. Incorporating digital technology into the conventional foundry process has improved control and resulted in bronze castings with millimeter accuracy.

 

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Standard Policies, Terms, and Conditions

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- Price estimations posted on my website are subject to change without notice.
- Prices include consultation, design development, the finished bronze casting, crating, freight, insurance against loss or damage during transit, installation hardware, and illustrated installation instructions specific to your site conditions.
- Quotations are valid for 90 days, after which they may need re-evaluation due to copper market volatility.
- Prices do not include local or state taxes; these should be added as applicable to your area.
- A 50% deposit is required to initiate the project.
- From the receipt date of the initial deposit, please allow six months to finalize the digital production file, foundry casting, finishing, and delivery within the continental US.
- The remaining 50% balance is due FOB (freight on board) when the bronze is ready to be shipped before leaving the foundry.

These terms are designed to provide the most economical service; other terms may attract additional costs.

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If you are a paleontologist, whether or not you are a client, I would appreciate your comments, suggestions, or criticisms regarding any of my sculptures. Feedback is essential for improving the quality and accuracy of my work. I would greatly appreciate it if you could share my website address with any professional contacts who might be interested in my work.

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Thank you for considering me for your project—I look forward to working with you.
 

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Contact. Travis Tischler <travis@travistischler.com>