Harrisand. What is it? Well, it is the most prestigious sand carving competition known to man. It’s the world championships! Located in Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia. Over 60 sand sculpting masters from around the world participated in this 6-day event. I was fortunate to be invited by Michel Lepire to be his partner in the Doubles Competition. Michel is a very decorated sand and ice sculptor as well as a vegetable artist. Michel has been a great influence to me and my sand carving career. It was an honor to be his partner in Harrisand.

Michel and I carved a piece titled “Tropical Splendor.” It includes a gate of vases on a stone wall with a cobble stone walkway. The walkway leads to a gazebo, which is decorated with exotic birds and flowers.

For the solo event, I carved a piece titled “High Seas.” On the front side of the sculpture is a ship’s captain holding the wheel with waves crashing down all around him. On the back side, the waves and water continue, but with two dancing sailfish. This sculpture was inspired by a piece of artwork that my wife, Jill, and I came across on our honeymoon. Jill sketched the original artwork for the piece, and off we went to Harrisand!

As it turns out, we did not place in either event, but we had the experience of a lifetime! Thanks to Harrisand and Michel Lepire for helping me to qualify for the world championships. Look for me at next year’s event!

Rock On Ice