Playing in the sand can reap benefits this weekend — that is, if you are a participant in Creston’s first annual sand sculpture contest.
World-class sand sculptor Paul Dawkins is supervising the project on the Ramada Hotel and Conference Centre property at the corner of highways 3 and 3A.
“There is no need to register ahead,” said Dawkins. “Just show up.”
He will provide a free training workshop to anyone who wants it — more confident artists “can wing it.”
With 39 years of experience in making sand, snow and ice sculptures on six continents, Dawkins brings plenty of knowledge to his craft. He has amassed 21 medals and five titles in the White Rock and Harrison Hot Springs world sand sculpture championships.
For his first Creston project, he envisions a sculpture that could last until Christmas — it’s being built under a shelter — and a theme that embraces a bridge between First Nations and European culture.
“It’s the most elaborate piece ever in my 39 years,” he said.
He is also incorporating the logos of sponsoring local businesses, weaving them into what promises to be a piece of art unlike any ever in Creston.
Dawkins has worked on far larger scales, building sculptures up to six acres in area, using 70,000 tons of sand and reaching 67 feet in height, but the one-time film animator is excited to be working on a project that will have incredible detail. Already the section he has been working on each evening is showing that he knows his business. A towering mountain peak features a winding road, reflective of The Creston DriveBy, the title he has selected for the piece.
Participating artists are promised plenty of fun and the chance to win prizes valued up to $1,500. Aspiring sand sculptors will work on ready-made sand blocks and screened sand will be provided. Bring hand trowels, kitchen utensils, small shovels or your favourite beach toys, or use tools provided by Dawkins.
The contest will run from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 1 and 2, with the winners (chosen by public ballot) announced on Sunday at 5 p.m. For more information, call Dawkins at 250-402-1036.