Some artists don't want you to touch their work. Oils in skin can damage some works. So, before touching, it is best, and certainly polite, to ask first. And please, don't let your jewelry touch the works. Many sculptures can withstand the gentle touch of skin but can be damaged by even fingernails, much less rings and bangles.
Typically, sculptures love to be touched. Now in a museum if everyone touched the sculptures they would be damaged. Perhaps it is possible to love something too much!
Have you seen some of the "good luck" spots on public pieces? The continuous rubbing by masses changes the color of the piece and can actually wear down the material.
That said, I love going into a gallery where they encourage you to touch the sculptures. Some have special displays for just that purpose. Many were originally started as displays for the visually impaired, with a variety of textures and materials.
When wondering, "can I touch this sculpture or not?", just like crossing the street, the first thing to do is to look. Look at the sculpture. Caress it with your eyes. Is it really asking you to touch it? How does the piece want you to touch it--loving, gentle pats, or big bear-hugs? Then look around the sculpture. Are there signs that either encourage or discourage one from touching? If there are no signs, is the artist or owner present? With permission, touch away! And don't be shy about it--if the piece is calling to you for a hug then, by golly, give it a hug!
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