Amazing Sand Castles

What makes sand castles so great? Could it be the ability for anyone, of all ages, to create one? Or, the vast, free availability of the materials used to make them? Regardless of the reason, sand castle building is a pastime that has now become incorporated with the words, "beach", "vacation", and now, even "art".

Sand castles have been around throughout human history, having been believed to be first created by the Egyptians, who are thought to have modeled their and creations in the shape of pyramids. In the later portion of the 19th century, is is believed that the first real "sand sculptures" made a profit from building sand sculptures along the boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey. People passing by would often toss small tips into the hats belonging to artist whose work they appreciated. And from this, sand sculpting is believed to be born from. A common pastime for both children and adults, they range widely from great feats to simple piles of sand, pushed together by the absentminded person.

     Although sand castles don't seem to be considered art by many people, one glance at some of the monuments built may completely change opinions. In fact, sand sculptures have grown so large that competitions are now held to allow sand artists to display their work. One of these is located in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, which hosts the Master Sand Sculpture Comeptition, which starts this June and runs for a total of 11 days, from the 19th-30th.

Hampton Beach began its legacy with sand in the year 2000 when local artist Gregory Grady was asked to  by the U.S. mint to create a model of the new edition New Hampshire quarter with just sand for use. The following year, the first annual competition was held, and 220 tons of sand were brought for the availabilty of ten master sculptures who, with just the use of sand, created their own masterpieces for the enjoyment of the public. 

In the past five years, this tournament of sand and water has boomed, and is the largest Masters Sand Competition in the Northeast United States. A $15,000 purse has now been alloted for the best sculpture which fifteen world class masters are now vying for.

     I must confess, professional sand castle building seems to be the coolest job ever. Imagine, your work commute has flexible hours, fun in the sun, and fresh air. "Team Sandtastic" is taking this ideal field of work, and taking to a whole new level. As professional sand sculptures, they offer their services to: shopping centers, theme parks, fairs, festivals, fundraisers, corporate logos, commercials, conventions, birthday parties, and just about anything else you can think of! The sculptures they create are both awe aspiring and generate huge crowds that draw media attention and increase profits for businesses they sculpt them for.