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Are the sculptures really made of sand and water only?
Yes, the artists work only with sand and water.
Where does the sand come from?
The sand comes from the Sand and Mortar Factory Niederlehme near Berlin.
What happens in the case of rain?
If it rains, nothing happens to a sand sculpture. The rainwater is absorbed by the sand and evaporates again when it is no longer raining. Only with heavy, driving rain can horizontal surfaces be affected by a sort of "granular structure" due to the impact of the raindrops.
What happens in case of wind or storm?
Stormy weather is no problem. Because the sand is compressed so hard, the wind cannot get hold of it. A sand sculpture can easily withstand a Force 7 wind.
Does one have to have attend an art college to build sand sculptures?
No, everybody can learn the basic principles. You only need a lot of patience and a feeling for the construction of geometrical figures. Apart from that, you need to work hard because "compacting" demands a lot of physical effort.
How long is it possible for a sand sculpture to beat the elements?
If a sand sculpture is built outdoors it can stay there for months. The European record is 1 year and 9 months - the sculpture at Madurodam (Netherlands) which even survived the winter. The Californian record is 2 years. If a sand sculpture is built inside, it can remain intact for decades, if it is not touched.
Do you have to keep spraying a sand sculpture once it is complete to keep it moist?
No, the sand has to be moist only when you are working on a sculpture. That is why the builders use plant sprayer bottles. When the sculpture is ready, it can dry out completely. It does not fall apart because the sand is compacted. Don`t sand sculptors mind when their sculpture is demolished?
No, provided that it is done with respect. Everyone involved in sand sculpture knows that a sand sculpture is temporary. The most important part is the construction phase, a photo is the best memory. Building a new one is always a new challenge.
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