Sand & Water Art

Sand and water art depicts any subject matter including basic sandcastles.

Although sand and water art began as a way for regular beach dwellers to make money from tourists, the art form has since grown to receive international acclaim as distinguished form of sculpture. All sand and water artists use similar tools regardless of whether the final piece is an indoor or outdoor sculpture. Sand and water artists including those who compete in outdoor contests rarely suffer consequences from rainy conditions.

History

Artists started sculpting sand on beaches to make money.

Sand and water art began in the late 1800's on the beaches of Atlantic City, New Jersey, according to Sand Castles Central. After peddling levels overtook Atlantic City, the city outlawed the practice of sand and water art and sand sculpture decreased in popularity. However, the number of sand and water artists grew after a leading sculptor, Todd Vander Pluym, founded Sand Sculptors International in 1980. The art continued expansion and reached worldwide public recognition in 1990's. Numerous media stories on sand and water art sustained the recognition of the activity as an art form.

Types

Indoor sand and water artists relocate finished pieces to a specific location.

There are two types of sand and water art, outdoor and indoor. Outdoor sand and water artists create sculptures right on the beach. A hotel or resort located on the beach often hires outdoor sand and water artists as a method of attracting business. Other outdoor sand sculptors work for tips or use the opportunity to advertise indoor sculpting services. Indoor sand sculptures make the art at another location and typically transport it to a final destination. Many indoor artists receive payment for the sculptures and provide elaborate creations for corporations, hotel lobbies and events.

Tools

The creations of sand an water art requires tools such as spoons.

Sand and water sculptors use a variety of tools including forms, spoons and knives for creating the details, lines and shapes in the sand. Most sand artists collect a distinct set of favorite tools, according to the artists at the Sand Factory. Plastic or wood forms create large blocks of sand, add height and depth and allow the artist to carve the design freely. Outdoor sand and water artists typically use the sand from the beach although some prefer to bring in a preferred type such as fine grain. Indoor artists always use the finest grade sand available. All artists form the sculpture with just sand and water.

Contests

Competitions for sand sculptures include judging and awards.

Competitions for sand and water art sculptures take place all over the world. Organizations such as Team Sandtastic help businesses create contests including everything from community advertising to judging. A sand and water art competition draws huge crowds and creates a beneficial attraction for businesses in the area. Many competitions raise money for charity and help further the career of the artist or team of artists.

Considerations

Sand and water art usually withstands rainy conditions.

Rain rarely affects outdoor sand and water art due to the tightly compacted nature of the medium, according to Sandqube. Most sand artists spray the final piece with a weather resistant coating and make repairs to the sculpture when necessary. Severe conditions including heavy rain and wind may damage a sculpture and can even permanently wash it away. Sand and water art kept indoors lasts indefinitely.

References

• Sand Castle Central: The History of Sand Sculpture
• Sand Sculptors International: About SSI & Our Services
• Sand Factory: F.A.Q.
• Tean Sandtastic: Sand Sculpture Competitions
• Sandqube: Sand Sculpture FAQS