It’s such a relief to see annual events returning to Treasure Island in the aftermath of last year’s damaging hurricane season. The actual carving and celebration of these incredible sand sculptures took place the weekend before Thanksgiving, replete with a craft market and live music.

I first viewed this artwork during the opening weekend but it was so crowded that I couldn’t manage decent photos. I knew I had plenty of time to get back and take pictures because, unlike other nearby sand sculpting festivals, the city leaves these standing until the beginning of the New Year (unless weather damage makes them unsafe, then they will be leveled early).

In case you noticed the color difference from our beach sand, these sculptures are molded from an entirely unique sand. The firm, uniform-sized sand the artists use for their masterpieces is trucked in from down near Miami. That special deposit is the remains of an ancient coral reef. Reef that was chewed up by hungry parrotfish who then pooped out this fine-grained sand mixed with an organic compound that makes it ideal for large-scale projects. The more you know…

As for the contest, Morphism overwhelmingly won first place, from both the judges and the public. You probably have to see it in person to appreciate all the hollow, empty spaces that the artist incorporated. The lacy look seems almost impossible!