FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — After a five-year break, the American Sand Sculpting Championship has returned, breathing life back into the golden shores of Fort Myers Beach. This beloved event, now in its 34th year, has faced challenges amid a backdrop of COVID-19 and recent hurricanes, which paused its momentum and tested the resilience of the local community.
“After Hurricane Ian and other storms, our sandy shores were diminished. The town has worked tirelessly to restore the beach, bringing in nearly 400 tons of fresh sand to rekindle this treasured event,” shared Bill Knight, organizer and master sculptor, a man who has witnessed the transformations of both the beach and the sculpting community over the years.
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American Sand Sculpting Championship is back on Fort Myers Beach
For master sculptors like Brett Stocker from Mexico and Bruce Waugh from Canada, returning to southwest Florida holds profound significance. The raw emotions tied to their craft are palpable.
“Seeing drone footage of the ruins near the Wyndham Hotel brought tears to my eyes back in Canada,” Waugh confided, an expression of vulnerability showcasing his deep connection to this art form and the community it fosters. “Now, to be back here among my peers feels like a homecoming.”
In the heart of it all, Stocker echoed Waugh’s sentiments. “The excitement of the competition returning was irresistible. I had to come,” he said, embodying the passion that drives these talented artisans.
For Waugh, sculpting is more than a hobby; it’s a lifelong journey. “Growing up, my parents took me to lakes where I played in the sand, turning over buckets,” he reminisced. This innocent beginning has morphed into a fulfilling life dedicated to artistry and camaraderie. Over decades, he’s forged bonds with fellow sculptors, some of whom reside thousands of miles away.
“Each artist brings their unique skills to the table. When we gather, secrets flow, tools change hands, and techniques are shared,” Waugh explained, highlighting the collaborative spirit that thrives among these creative souls. “This sense of community is what uplifts us all.”
For three magical days, Fort Myers Beach will transform into a gallery of ephemeral artistry as master sculptors like Waugh and Stocker craft their creations under the watchful gaze of beachgoers and the warm Florida sun. “This process is special, from the initial shoveling to the final masterpiece. It’s an experience everyone should witness,” Waugh emphasized, inviting the public to partake in the magic unfolding before their eyes.
The title of American Sand Sculpting Champion will be determined on Sunday, but until then, the public can enjoy the artistry in motion, taking a stroll over to the DiamondHead Resort. Here, creativity and resilience are sculpted not just from sand but from the shared love between people, their art, and the reclaimed shores they cherish.
