Sandcastle Building
Insider Info
"I have always loved the beach, and sandcastling gives me a legitimate
reason for spending lots of time there," says sand sculptor Lucinda Wierenga
(better known as "sandy feet").
Sandcastle building, or sand sculpting, is a kind of performance art that
can be done anywhere there is enough sand and water. Using sand, water, a
few hand tools, and sometimes forms, people build all kinds of structures,
large and small.
Sand sculpting is usually done outdoors at public beaches. Most sandcastle
builders say the environment is friendly and relaxed, and that many people
often stop by a work in progress to chat.
"I enjoy being a performing artist and speaking about sand sculpting. You
get to work outdoors -- and tan -- next to the sound of crashing waves. There's
no life like it," says master sculptor Paul Dawkins.
There's no real way of knowing exactly how many people are involved in
sandcastle building. No one keeps official records. There are at least a dozen
professional groups in the U.S. and Canada that provide sand, snow, ice and
other sculpting services.
"I would estimate the number of pro sculptors in the Northern Hemisphere
at somewhere in the 150 to 250 range," says Wierenga. As for amateurs, sand
sculpture competitions sometimes attract hundreds of people eager to participate
-- and many hundreds more are attracted to watch.
As time goes on, the trend in sandcastle building is always bigger, better,
more detailed, intricate and original. These days, special tools and forms
are available for people who need more than just a bucket and a shovel.
"Over the past couple of decades, some sand sculptors have started compacting
their sand with big forms and tampers. Also, my partner and I have recently
developed and started manufacturing a line of tools designed specifically
for sand sculpting, and have sold several hundred sets from our Web site,"
says Wierenga.
Sandcastle building is a very inexpensive recreation that doesn't require
too much equipment. The two main ingredients, sand and water, are readily
available free at any beach. After that, all you need is a few basics -- shovels,
pails and maybe a trowel. This is enough to get started on small projects.
However, if you want to go big, you'll need to get some additional equipment.
"For larger pieces, you would need forms in which to pack the sand to the
desired height and dimension. A pounding device for packing sand into the
forms. Many buckets for water. Shovels and carving trowels. A vehicle to haul
the stuff around and a storage space," says sand sculptor David M. Dureault.
Small sandcastles or other structures don't require much physical work.
But if you plan on attempting a large project, or entering a contest, you
better be in shape! Sand and water is heavy, and you'll be hauling tons of
both in five-gallon pails. This can be murder on your back.
Large wooden forms can also be heavy. Then of course you have to pack the
sand -- and all this under the hot sun!
Some artistic ability couldn't hurt either.
Those who are physically challenged can participate, depending on the challenge.
"Anyone can participate. I've seen blind carvers at international competitions
do incredible sculptures. Sand is just another creative medium," says Dawkins.
Sandcastle building is generally very safe. Some sculptors like to wear
runners to avoid possible sharp objects in the sand. Twisted ankles are not
uncommon. Neither are sore backs and sand in the eyes. By far, the biggest
danger in this recreation is the sun. Make sure you have a hat, a T-shirt,
and plenty of sunscreen!
It is possible to be gainfully employed in this recreation. Those who do
are usually professional sculptors. Some sculpt not only with sand but also
with snow and ice as well.
These people are sometimes hired by companies to produce sculptures for
advertising. Some entrepreneurs, like Wierenga, have turned their love of
sand sculpting into a good business by selling how-to books and sculpting
tools.
Getting Started
It really doesn't take much to get started in this recreation. All you
need is a beach, a shovel and a pail. Of course, a nice day will be a great
motivator!
You may want to visit some of the sand sculpting sites on the Internet
and get ideas by looking at the photos. The best way to get going is just
to get out there, have fun and experiment.
As far as instruction is concerned, you can learn a lot just by watching
others. There are likely a few books on the subject at your local library.
"Your own creative ideas will get you started for fun sandcastle building.
But if you want to enter contests, the best way is to find someone to give
you a few lessons or go watch the pros at a contest," say Jay and Nita Stephen.
They are both sand sculptors.
"We personally watched the pros and gathered ideas from them and then incorporated
a few of our own. There are a limited number of books concerning the subject,
but it is always easier to understand when you see it done in person."
"All it takes is a desire to do it. Be advised that it is a lot of work,
but there's nothing else like it. Just go to the beach, find some wet sand
and make a pile," advises sand sculptor Larry Nelson.
"Practice the art of doing it. For more experience, attend sand sculpture
contests or volunteer with a professional," says Dawkins.
Links
Sand Sculptors International
Touted as the leading sand sculpture company
Sandscapes
An award-winning sand sculpting company
Sandcastle Tips for Beginners
Everything you need to know to get started
The Sandemons
This site features a group of sand and snow sculptors
Sandcastle Central
Lucinda Wierenga's amazing site
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