THINGS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING A SAND SCULPTOR
(and the answers I would give)
Do you have a lot of experience?
I have been sculpting sand since 1975, working professionally and competing at a masters level since 1988. I have worked with most of the major sand sculpting companies, at locations in Europe, North America and Asia. I also compete at events worldwide and have been the World Champion, American Champion and North American champion. These titles were all won in the solo category, meaning no one else contributed to the sculpting.
Do you have a background in art?
I have a bachelors degree in art from Berea College, in Kentucky, and have been a full-time professional artist since 1978. Although there are many people working as sand sculptors who don't have a formal artistic background, I am convinced that the sculpture I make is enhanced by my education and artistic experience.
Were the samples I've seen created by the same artist who will sculpt my project?
In my case, absolutely yes. If you hire me, you get me. You'll be hiring a sculptor, not a sculpting company. I will be the only or primary sculptor, and I'll be the one who answers the phone when you call. However, if you hire a sandsculpting 'company' then the sculptor they send you will not necessarily be anyone whose work you've seen in their brochure or even anyone with very much experience at all. Sand Scupture companies typically have a list of sculptors they call on for jobs, and because they are the most expensive for the company, the best and most experienced sculptors don't necessarily get called first.
Is sand sculpture all you do?
I'm happy to say no to that one. I believe that working in multiple mediums improves an artists work and attitude both. What's learned in one medium enhances the others, and the dreaded burnout is avoided. Because I only do it about half the year, working in sand is always fresh to me, and I think my sculptures reflect that. Working in sand full-time also means being on the road full-time, which is a very difficult and draining lifestyle.
Do you mind answering viewers questions?
Sand sculpture is a performance art. People love watching and enjoy interacting with the sculptor. Not all sculptors are comfortable or tolerant with that, and you'll recognize those sculptors by their use of personal music systems with headphones. I understand that being accessible to the viewers is a basic part of what will make your project a success. I enjoy talking to fans of all ages, chatting and answering questions as I sculpt. For me, it is part of the joy and sharing of the art form.
Will I know what the sculpture will look like?
Yes, if that's what you want. I always talk to my clients about what they'd like to see and what would work the best visually for their project. I then provide scale drawings of the proposed sculpture from all angles. I then make every effort to have the finished piece look even better than those drawings. Some clients just ask me to "do my best work", which is certainly fine with me also.
Can I talk to some of your past clients?
Of course. References available upon request, as they say.
Here's a quote from the event organizer of a recent project for the United Way in Louisville:
"You were a very vital part of the celebration and the media coverage showed that. I hope we can work together in the future."
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