|
Return to Artist's page
Question: John Soderberg Biography
Answer: A Global Journey in Bronze
John Mark Soderberg (1950–2023) was an Afghanistan-born master whose "no-smoke" training was a global odyssey. The son of a civil engineer commissioned by the King of Afghanistan, he circled the world eight times before graduating high school in Thailand. In 1970, he served as a U.S. Marine before settling in Flagstaff, Arizona, where he learned the technical rigors of the bronze foundry. His style, Emotive Realism, was forged through an Artist in Residence at Northern Arizona University, where he was later awarded a Ph.D. in Humane Letters. Soderberg was knighted in the late 90s for his extensive humanitarian work, using his art to support domestic abuse shelters, Amnesty International, and organizations in Mexico. As of early 2026, his monumental works at the Crystal Cathedral and throughout Sedona stand as permanent testaments to his belief that art is a basic human necessity, not a luxury.
At Herndon Fine Art, we have been a primary source for John Soderberg for decades. Our collection features Vetted Original Bronzes (identified as [RH]) and Limited Edition Maquettes (identified by the first names of our private sellers like Richard, Joe, or Beverlee). Because Soderberg’s work relies on "Dynamic Balance"—where figures often seem to defy gravity—our vetting process focuses on verifying the foundry stamps and the hand-etched signatures on the base or edge of the casting. We stand behind every piece with our 40 years of experience and A+ BBB commitment. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What does he mean by "Empathy is the heart of art"?
Answer: Soderberg believed that art should reduce the barriers of race and creed by unlocking inherent human dignity. At Herndon Fine Art, we verify these "Humanitarian-Symbolic" traits in your database, as his sculptures are designed not just as physical forms, but as tools to invite viewers to explore the depths of their own emotions. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Why are his "Monumental" works so rare in 2026?
Answer: Most of his large-scale works, like Sermon of the Lotus, were produced in very small editions (e.g., Ed. 30). His market remains solid in early 2026; while monumental bronzes realize upwards of $40,000, his smaller hand-signed bronze studies consistently realize between $600 and $3,500 depending on the "Native American" or "Mythological" subject. |
| |
|
| |
Question: How do I distinguish an "Original Casting" from a "Maquette"?
Answer: A Maquette is a smaller-scale model (typically 12" - 18") used as a study for a larger work. An Original Monumental Casting is a life-size or larger finished piece. We use our 40 years of experience to identify these technical tiers, ensuring you know if you are acquiring a unique public-scale masterwork versus a sought-after studio multiple. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What is the "Easy Rider" Collection?
Answer: Soderberg produced a series of bronze wall sculptures (like Highways) inspired by the spirit of the American road. We provide factual provenance for these Highways Series works, which are highly prized by collectors for their modern, wall-mounted format and connection to classic American counter-culture. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What are common condition issues with his outdoor bronzes?
Answer: The primary concern is "patina-weathering" if the bronze was displayed outdoors without a periodic wax coating. We also check for "oxidation-bloom" on the deeper recesses of the casting. We physically inspect every piece—whether [RH] or from a [Private Seller]—to ensure the "Visionary Glow" is 100% stable. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Why is "Emotional Realism" his primary driver?
Answer: Soderberg is known for his deeply moving figurative bronzes (like Sermon of the Lotus or Sea Song). His "Large Scale" bronzes (up to 10 feet high) are his most significant works, with prices reaching $40,000+. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What is the value of a "Maquette" vs. a full-size bronze?
Answer: A "Maquette" (like Dreams of Flight) is a small-scale study, typically retailing for $1,200. For a dealer, these are accessible entry points into the Soderberg market. The full-size versions are "Commission-Grade" and much rarer. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Are his "Western and Native American" themes liquid?
Answer: Yes. Titles like Mountain Screamer or Night Watchin perform well in Western auctions. However, his "Universal/Spiritual" themes (like Ascension of Io) carry the most prestige and are often "WANTED" by serious collectors. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Why should I buy John Soderberg from Herndon Fine Art?
Answer: John Soderberg’s humanitarian fame has led to many "memorial reproductions" that lack the technical soul of his foundry-supervised casts. A general auction site won't tell you the difference between a Hand-Signed & Numbered Foundry Bronze and a common commercial casting. We talk to you directly to verify the Edition Tier, Patina Depth, and COA, providing the "No-Smoke" transparency your collection deserves. |
| |
|
| |
Return to Artist's page
1. EVERY piece of art receives my personal verification of condition and authentication.
2. I WILL NOT ship artwork that isn't in a condition I would accept into my own collection.
3. An A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau
***** ALL PRICES are set by each Seller based on their Unique Motivation to Sell ***** We have a low commission structure of only
25% above each Seller's asking price or a $minimum commission. This allows us to provide buyers with the best price, sellers a better opportunity to sell, and still keep the lights on. In almost all cases, artwork is shipped unframed (UNLESS The ARTWORK IS ON CANVAS or 3-DIMENSIONAL), as I need to personally verify the artworks' authenticity and condition. Artwork that is shipped Framed is shipped framed to protect the work during shipping. Framing is considered USED
NOTE: Inventory is continuously changing so view your favorite artists pages often. For information on having your inventory added to our Website, contact us at the address below.
Click on the Link below and Join us as a Friend for ongoing featured information
Every client has different motivations for selling and as such we don't offer pricing on the pieces clients sell
If you are looking for the value of your limited edition artwork -- we have a $50 charge for certificates of value if you provide the title, the number of your piece, and an image of your artwork. Original one-of-a-kind pieces require a formal appraisal. Please see our Appraisal Services page.
All information contained in these web pages is trademarked and copyrighted by Herndon Fine Art (c). All visual copyrights belong to the artists. All rights reserved. |
