Currently, the garden statues available in the market are made of stone, bronze, reinforced glass and stainless steel. Evaluating by the sales figure, stone garden statues and bronze garden statues are most popular. It is because stone garden statues look more natural, reminding us that we are in oneness with nature. Besides, stone statues are often hand-made and one can tell the artisanship by touching the engraved lines of the statue. Yet stone statues require careful maintenance. As garden statues are erected in open air, the stone will be worn by the wind and rain. In my opinion, bronze garden statue is a better choice. The luster of bronze also looks antique. And the luster of bronze will become darker along with the passage of time, making the statue seem all the more quintessential. But don't worry because its luster can be resumed by re-sanding the statue profile. As for garden statues made of reinforced glass and stainless steel, I think they should become the choices only when your budget is strained.
Then we also have to consider the profile of the garden statue. I guess it has something to do with personal inclination. I personally prefer personae-shaped statues because the bodily aesthetic manifested by such statues is overwhelming to me. Of course, there are also animal-shaped statues like bronze lion statue. I guess they can be good choices for people longing for the appeal of wilderness.
As for the layout of the garden statue, I think take many elements into consideration. First, the garden statue is supposed to stand in sunward side. In this way, it shines with gleaming brilliance when the first sunbeam pours on it. Still, the statue is supposed to face outward so that it looks as if greeting visiting guests. And to set the garden in symmetry, the statue should ordinarily be placed on the central line but not blocking the path.
In all, these are the common knowledge on the choice and layout of garden statues. I hope you will find my article useful.