Sand Art

Sand art is a creative way to make pictures and shapes with sand. Some artists pour colored sand into bottles to make layered designs. Others build big sand castles on the beach. Some even draw huge pictures in the sand that wash away with the tide.

Types of Sand Art

There are many kinds of sand art. Sand bottles have layers of colored sand inside clear glass. Sand sculptures are made from wet sand on a beach. Sand painting uses sand sprinkled onto a sticky surface to make a picture. Some artists even make sand animation by moving sand on a glass table with lights.

Sand Art Traditions

Navajo people in America make sand paintings for healing ceremonies. Tibetan monks create beautiful sand mandalas that they sweep away when finished. Beach artists around the world build giant sand castles in contests. Sand art is enjoyed in many cultures.

Fun Facts

• Tibetan monks spend days making a sand mandala and then sweep it all away.
• The tallest sand castle ever built was over 57 feet tall.
• Navajo sand paintings are made during healing ceremonies and are sacred.

Did You Know?

Some sand artists use only their hands and simple tools to carve huge sculptures on the beach that can be as tall as a house!