Abe Waterman - Prince Edward Island/Texas

Abe Waterman is a talented sand sculptor from Prince Edward Island, Canada, known for his creative and out-of-the-box approach to ephemeral art. Growing up in Canada’s smallest province, Abe was immersed in art from a very early age. He began producing artwork when he was young, often using crayons and his diapers as makeshift canvases. This playful spirit carried through into his adult years as he transitioned from sketching and painting to working with more temporary materials, including snow, sand, and ice. Abe’s journey into sculpting began in the early 2000s with snow sculptures, and by 2007, he was invited to participate in a sand sculpting exhibition as the “token local.” That opportunity sparked a new passion, and since then, Abe has fully embraced sand sculpture as his career. He now works primarily with ephemeral mediums like sand and snow, occasionally creating more permanent works in wood and stone.

Abe has become a well-known figure in the sand sculpting world, traveling across Canada, the U.S., and beyond to compete in numerous contests and exhibitions. His work has earned him several prestigious awards, and he has gained a reputation as a fierce, respected competitor. Abe’s unique style blends creativity with technical skill, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with sand.

When he’s not sculpting, Abe continues to embrace his artistic roots by exploring new mediums and seeking out fresh, unconventional ideas. As a full-time sand sculptor, he’s known for his innovative and out-of-the-box creations, constantly surprising audiences with his artistic vision.

Based in his home province of Prince Edward Island, Abe Waterman continues to inspire the world of sand sculpting with his passion for ephemeral art, his playful approach to creation, and his commitment to pushing the limits of the medium.

 Andrius Petkus - Lithuania - Current Atlantis RIsing Champion; Winner Atlantis Rising 2023

Andrius Petkus, born in 1976 in Palanga, Lithuania, is a distinguished sculptor renowned for his pioneering contributions to sand sculpture. He has significantly advanced the art form in Lithuania and internationally, establishing the Sand Sculpture Park and Museum in Palanga to promote and preserve this unique medium. 

Petkus pursued his artistic education at the Vilnius Academy of Arts, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in sculpture from 1996 to 2000, followed by a Master of Arts degree between 2000 and 2002. His academic background has been instrumental in shaping his diverse artistic endeavors, allowing him to explore a wide range of materials and mediums beyond sand, such as ice and other conceptual sculptures. 

Throughout his career, Petkus has participated in numerous international exhibitions and competitions, earning multiple awards and honors for his artistry. Notably, in 2023, he secured first place at the 2^nd annual Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Festival, with many other significant accolades include being crowned European Champion at the International Sand Sculpture Europe Championship in Belgium in 2021 and World Champion in the Doubles category with Dmitri Klimenko at the Virginia Beach Neptune Championship Sand Sculpting in 2018. 

Beyond his sculpting achievements, Petkus is a dedicated educator and mentor. Through workshops and collaborations on large-scale public art projects, he shares his expertise and passion for sand sculpture, helping to elevate the medium as a respected and serious art form. His Sand Sculpture Park and Museum in Palanga stands as a testament to his commitment to preserving and advancing sand art, while also providing a platform for future generations of artists to learn and grow. 

Through his groundbreaking work, Andrius Petkus continues to inspire audiences and fellow artists around the world, demonstrating the transformative power of sand as both a medium of expression and a temporary masterpiece.

 Daeyoung Ji - South Korea

Daeyoung Ji, a skilled sand sculptor based in South Korea, has spent the past 15 years honing his craft and gaining international recognition for his intricate sand sculptures. Daeyoung's journey into the world of sand art began in 2006 when he started working with various sculptural mediums, including rock and snow and other various mediums. However, it was in 2014, during a visit to the Beyond the Sand Art Festival in Australia, that he discovered his true passion for sand sculpture. Captivated by the stunning works of world-renowned sculptors at the event, Daeyoung decided to pursue sand sculpting seriously.

After passing an introductory test under the mentorship of noted American sand sculptor, Daeyoung embarked on an apprenticeship in Australia, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his career. Since then, he has showcased his talent at numerous international festivals and competitions, bringing his unique vision to audiences around the world.

Daeyoung has participated in over 14 festivals and exhibitions in Korea, four in Taiwan, seven in Australia, and in locations as far-flung as Denmark and Florida. His dedication and skill have earned him multiple awards, including a second-place finish at the Sand Sculpting Championships in Australia and first place at the 2019 Haeundae Sand Festival in Korea. Notably, he was the first Korean artist to win a prize in a world sand sculpture competition, a significant achievement in his career.

For Daeyoung, the beauty of sand sculpting lies in its ephemeral nature. "I love to surprise the audience by moving countless grains of sand on the beach to create shapes and shadows," he says, highlighting the raw and transformative qualities of sand as both a medium and a material. His sand sculptures are often larger-than-life creations that blend artistry with the natural environment, captivating viewers with their intricate detail and dynamic presence.

Based in South Korea, Daeyoung Ji continues to be an influential figure in the world of sand sculpture, traveling the globe to share his artistic vision and passion for this unique and fleeting art form.

 Ilya Filimonstev - Russia

Ilya Filimonstev, a highly regarded sand sculptor from Moscow, Russia, has carved a distinguished path in the world of sculpture, blending his artistic talents with his love for travel. After studying at the Art College in Moscow, Ilya began his career as a jeweler and goldsmith, designing and creating jewelry for seven years. However, his journey into the world of sculpture took a turn when he discovered ice sculpting. The combination of sculpting and travel sparked a deep passion, leading Ilya to leave his jewelry career behind and pursue sculpture full-time.

Ilya’s dedication to his craft led him to study at the prestigious Moscow State Academic Art Institute of Surikov for six more years, where he refined his skills and deepened his artistic understanding. Since 2005, Ilya has been a prominent figure in the world of sand sculpture, participating in over 200 international sand, ice, and snow sculpture festivals across the globe.

His work has earned him recognition at top-tier events worldwide, where his intricate designs and attention to detail captivate audiences. One of his most notable achievements came in 2018, when Ilya was part of a team tasked with creating a “Nativity Scene” for the Pope in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, a testament to the profound impact of his artistic vision.

Today, Ilya Filimonstev is considered one of the world’s leading sand sculptors, continuously pushing the boundaries of his craft while sharing his expertise at festivals and competitions worldwide. Based in Moscow, Ilya’s passion for combining art, travel, and sculpture continues to inspire both fellow artists and audiences alike.

 Jonathan "Jobi" Bouchard - Quebec

Jonathan Bouchard, professionally known as Jobi, is a distinguished sand sculptor from Quebec, Canada, recognized globally for his exceptional creativity and innovative techniques. Jobi's passion for sculpting began in his youth, where he first honed his skills by creating snow sculptures. His artistic journey expanded to include various mediums such as wood, metal, and plaster, before he discovered the world of sand sculpting in 2007.

Since his debut, Jobi has earned a stellar reputation in the international sand sculpting community. He has been particularly successful at the Sanding Ovations Master's Cup, where he has claimed first place a record five times, showcasing his consistent excellence and mastery of the craft. In 2024, Jobi achieved major recognition at the 20th Annual Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival in Massachusetts, where he won the top prize from judges for his sculpture "Blend In," as well as the People's Choice Award and the respect of his fellow sculptors.

In addition to his competitive success, Jobi has become a prominent figure in the media, with appearances on outlets such as Global News, which highlighted his journey and the impact of his artistic work. Known for his unique and imaginative ideas, Jobi’s sand sculptures are often celebrated for their creativity and flawless execution. His work can be seen at various commercial events, and he travels the world sharing his craft with global audiences.

Jobi’s background in graphic design and his early experiences with a range of materials have shaped his sand sculpting style, which combines precision and artistry. His love for sculpting in sand during the summer and snow during the winter reflects his lifelong passion for creating with natural materials. Fluent in both French and English, Jobi continues to be highly respected by his peers for his creativity, passion, and competitive spirit.

With over 15 years in the world of sand sculpture, Jobi remains a highly influential and talented artist, consistently delivering impressive, unique works that push the boundaries of the art form.

 Karen Fralich - Ontario

Karen was introduced to sand sculpture while working in a pottery studio in 1994 and immediately became addicted. 31 years later, the love affair continues! Although she has no formal art training, her passion for sand sculpting and all things gritty, challenging and physical lead her to embrace this unusual career.

In 1998, she entered her first international sand sculpting contest and by 2001 she was working full time as a freelance sculptor travelling all over the world. She specializes in fantasy and whimsical themes but loves to sculpt just about anything!

To date, Karen has competed in over 160 Masters Level International sand sculpture contests and won many titles, including 30 First Place Titles and 5 World Championship titles.

In addition to her busy competition schedule, Karen organizes many sand sculpting events in Canada. The Canadian National Exhibition, the Pan Am Games and Parks New Brunswick are a few clients. She is also the lead consultant and one of the judges on all 4 seasons of the hit CBC series “Race Against the Tide” from 2021 to 2024.

Her work takes her around the world, collaborating with sand sculpture companies and friends in 14 countries and counting….

Martjin Rijerse - Netherlands

Martijn Rijerse, a renowned sand sculptor from Rotterdam, Netherlands, has captivated audiences worldwide with his emotional and conceptual approach to sand sculpture. Before dedicating himself to sand art, Martijn studied architecture, which heavily influences his creative process and drives him to constantly push the limits of his craft. Since 2000, he has been sculpting with a variety of materials, including sand, ice, snow, and foam, continually exploring new structures and forms.

Martijn’s art is not just a visual experience—it’s an emotional journey. His work often blends figurative and abstract designs to evoke deep, personal emotions in viewers. This unique style has led to invitations to showcase his sculptures in numerous countries, including Spain, England, Latvia, Thailand, Australia, the USA, and Canada.

In 2010, Martijn achieved one of the highest honors in his field by winning the World Championship in Sand Sculpting at a prestigious festival in Tottori, Japan. His passion for design and his commitment to creating art that resonates with the soul have solidified his place as one of the leading figures in the world of sand sculpting.

Based in Rotterdam, Martijn continues to create captivating and thought-provoking sculptures that challenge the boundaries of traditional sand art. His work invites viewers to connect with both the beauty and the fleeting nature of the medium. 

For more information, visit his website: http://2shape.nl

 Melineige Beauregard - Hawaii

Melineige Beauregard is a world-renowned sand sculptor originally from Quebec, Canada, now residing in Captain Cook, Hawaii. She is celebrated for her intricate designs, innovative techniques, and deep spiritual connection to her craft. Melineige's journey into sculpting began at the age of 16 with snow sculptures, and by 20, she was

collaborating with her internationally acclaimed father, Guy Beauregard, in sand sculpture competitions. 

In 2004, Melineige and Guy made history by winning the World Championship in the Doubles category, a pivotal moment in her career. Since then, Melineige has earned over 70 individual awards, including 1^st Place at the inaugural Atlantis Rising competition in 2022.

Her work is known for its exquisite detail, imaginative themes, and the ability to convey both the beauty and impermanence of the natural world. Melineige’s sand sculptures often reflect her belief that art is a spiritual experience—one that connects the artist to the universe. As she puts it, "When my hands touch the material, when my heart opens to give life, when my head is illuminated by light, I become the co-creator of the universe."

Melineige has also co-founded Broken Glass Sand Sculptures with fellow artist Chris Guinto, through which they travel the world creating awe-inspiring sculptures and leading workshops. Her work has been featured on popular television programs such as the Travel Channel’s *Sand Blasters*, *Sand Wars*, and *Sand Masters*.

Currently, Melineige continues to inspire others, sharing her expertise and spiritual approach to sand sculpture. Through her work, she has demonstrated that sand, though fleeting, is a powerful medium for both artistic expression and philosophical reflection.

 Morgan Rudluff - California

Morgan Rudluff, a beach-loving California native from Santa Cruz, discovered her passion for sand sculpting in 2007, and it quickly became a love affair that would shape her life. After leaving college, Morgan threw herself into the world of sand sculpture, and by 2011, she was traveling full-time, competing in professional events, appearing on TV, and living the good life. Her artistic journey has taken her to beaches around the world, where she’s crafted intricate and captivating works of art from sand.

In 2018, Morgan made the significant decision to focus on a new career as a full-time massage therapist. She now splits her time between her private practice in Oakland, CA, and teaching at the San Francisco School of Massage. Despite this shift, Morgan still finds time to sculpt, though now part-time. She sees the parallels between her two careers, noting that both sand sculpting and massage therapy require art, design, science, creativity, and intuition. As she puts it, “Both of my careers have been equal parts art, design, science, composition, education, adaptability, attention to detail, creativity, intuition, and absolute love for what I am doing.”

In her free time, Morgan continues to nurture her creativity through activities such as clay sculpting, gardening, and attending live music events. A proud dog mom to two small supermutts named Quincy and Trooper, she enjoys their company and the joy they bring to her life.

Morgan’s path has been filled with memorable milestones, including winning medals, receiving media attention, and meeting incredible people in the sand sculpting world. She approaches every project with passion and dedication and continues to bring that same energy to her work as a massage therapist. When she's not sculpting, Morgan also enjoys costume design, creative writing, and more, always embracing life’s fun, fabulous, and adventurous side.

 Thomas Koet - Florida

Thomas Koet, originally from the Netherlands and currently based in Melbourne, Florida, is a world-renowned sand sculptor with over 25 years of experience in the art form. With a master's degree in industrial design engineering, Thomas never expected to work in sand, but his passion for creativity, design, and technical execution led him to the medium in 1996. A friend introduced him to sand sculpting, and he quickly became captivated by its potential. Since then, he has become one of the most respected names in the world of sand sculpture.

Thomas’s talent has taken him around the globe, participating in and leading some of the largest sand sculpting events in Europe, North America, and beyond, including in China, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Qatar, and Canada. As a partner in Sandsational Sand Sculpting, he has designed and sculpted breathtaking, large-scale works for commercial and public events. 

His artistic goal is to create extraordinary sculptures of the highest quality, and he is known for pushing the limits of the medium, especially in competitions. A fierce competitor, Thomas has earned numerous accolades, including first, second, and third-place medals in the prestigious San Diego sand sculpting competition, as well as the Sculptor's Choice award. His career reached new heights in 2010 when he was crowned World Champion of Sand Sculpting, an achievement that solidified his place in the sand sculpting world.

Thomas’s work is admired for its intricate detail, technical precision, and ability to harness the unique qualities of sand to create awe-inspiring sculptures. He thrives in large-scale events, where his designs take on impressive proportions, and he continually strives to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible with sand.

With his creativity, passion, and engineering background, Thomas Koet continues to leave his mark on the world of sand sculpture, creating pieces that are not only visually stunning but also a testament to the art's transformative power.

 Greg Grady, Sr. - Organizer - New Hampshire

Greg Grady Sr. is a renowned sand sculpting organizer and enthusiast with a deep passion for the art of sand sculpture. With over three decades of experience in event planning and sand sculpting competitions, Greg has played a pivotal role in organizing some of the most iconic sand sculpting festivals and exhibitions worldwide. His dedication to promoting the art form has allowed him to bring together artists and fans alike, creating memorable experiences that celebrate creativity and skill. Under Greg’s leadership, sand sculpting events have grown to attract top-tier talent and large audiences, elevating the visibility of the art form on a global scale.

As an organizer, Greg is known for his meticulous attention to detail, innovative event strategies, and commitment to sustainability. He works tirelessly to ensure each competition is not only a showcase of artistic excellence but also an environmentally responsible event. Beyond his organizational expertise, Greg is a passionate advocate for the sand sculpting community and continues to inspire both veteran and emerging artists. 

 Greg J. "G2" Grady - Organizer/Sculptor/Demonstrations - New Hampshire

Greg J. Grady is a New Hampshire native, Marine Corps veteran, and a self-taught sculptor whose love for the art form has been shaped since childhood. A family-oriented man, Greg enjoys life with his long-time girlfriend, their son, and two stepchildren, embracing the joys of living.

Greg is a 2nd generation sand sculptor whose journey into art began in his youth, where he spent summers learning from his father on family vacation. His early years spent shaping sand on the beach sparked a lifelong dedication to the craft. Over the years, Greg’s natural talent and "Irish luck" would have him apprenticing under some of the world’s top sand sculptors, allowing him to refine his skills and travel across the U.S. and beyond.

If Greg isn’t spending time with his family or working on a sculpture, he can most likely be found working side by side with his father on one of the premiere sand sculpting festivals they organize. For more than 15 years, Greg has had the privilege of turning his love for sand into a full-time career, creating intricate and awe-inspiring sculptures for every type of event imaginable. A true believer in the magic of the medium, Greg loves the challenge and the creativity of working with sand and it's transient nature. He feels blessed to be part of this vibrant tribe of sculptors and to contribute to the ever-evolving art form for so many to enjoy.

To follow Greg’s travels and creations, visit:

Instagram: @ItsJustSand_Sculpture - Website: ItsJustSand.com

 Bruce Phillips - Sculptor/Lessons & Demonstrations - California

Bruce Phillips is a seasoned sand sculptor and artist from San Diego, California, with over 30 years of experience in the art of sand sculpting. He has made his mark at events and competitions around the world, from Japan to the Netherlands, and from Canada to Colombia. His unique style often leans toward the abstract, though he enjoys exploring all facets of sculpting in sand. Bruce’s passion for sand art has led him to travel to nearly 30 countries, competing and performing demonstrations at festivals and corporate events.

Beyond sand, Bruce is a skilled fabricator, bringing sculptures to life for other artists. Whether working on small projects or large-scale installations, Bruce excels at transforming concepts into physical works of art in various materials, including steel, iron, aluminum, fiberglass, glass, and rubber. One of his notable projects is “The Angel,” a sculpture that hangs 20 feet above the main train station in Zurich, Switzerland.

Bruce’s journey into sand sculpting began in 1992, and since then, he has become a recognized figure in the sand sculpting community. He has earned multiple accolades, including seven wins in the three-member division of the U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition and five world records. He also won the People’s Choice award for Best Masters Sculpture at the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge in 2013.

As an artist, Bruce has enjoyed watching sand sculpture evolve into a major performing arts attraction. His involvement in a variety of media, including his work with custom cars and hot rods, further highlights his creativity and performance-driven approach to art. At nearly 60 years old, Bruce shows no signs of slowing down and continues to push the boundaries of sand sculpting while inspiring the next generation of artists. Whether through sculptures, demonstrations, or private lessons, Bruce remains dedicated to his craft, constantly sharing his passion and knowledge with others.