When Did Sand Art Begin?

Sand art is an ancient practice used in many cultures for many purposes. Today, it is a medium of art whose practitioners range from schoolchildren to professional artists.

Origins

According to Sand Gallery, sand art started in Jordan in the 1920s. Inspired by the colors in the layered rock of the ancient ruins of Petra, artists began creating layered sand pieces in glass jars as souvenirs for tourists. Sand art gradually added geometric shapes, then more complex images, until it developed into a new medium.

Function

While artists in Jordan used sand for decorative pieces, other cultures around the world used it for healing purposes. According to author Amy Lenzo, Buddhists and the Navajo used "sand painting" rituals to help their sick regain their health.

Today

Today people continually push the envelope of what sand art can be. Sand art can be created by professional artists or kids in an after-school project. Sand art is also often used as a memento for couples who are married on the beach, or families who take vacations to sandy locations.

Size

Sand art is relatively small, typically ranging from a few inches to a foot in height. It takes many shapes, from cylindrical to flat, picture-like containers.

Where to Buy

You can buy sand art kits at any store with a crafts section. You can also go online to a seller like Crayola or Amazon.

References

• Sand Gallery
• Indigenous Sand Art

Resources

• Crayola Toys & Games