“Once you have the right consistency of
water and sand, it’s important to get all the
air bubbles out of the mix if you want your
sculpture to stay intact,” Convery says. As for
what he likes to build, it’s whichever way the
wind is blowing that day. “I like to build castles
and things people would see on the beach or in
the ocean: sharks, lobsters and crabs. I avoid
human faces because they are difficult to get
right and any imperfection will be noticed.
Cartoon characters are easier faces to sculpt.”
About five years into the sculpting
hobby, his wife suggested there might be an
opportunity to get paid for his work.
“Through a series of friends, I was
introduced to the owner of a local resort
chain in Cape Cod called Red Jacket Resorts,”
Convery says. “They saw my work and decided
to hire me. So, for the past five years, I’ve built
a unique sand sculpture once a week at each
of their locations. I also hold contests for the
guests. They’re allowed to build anything they
want. It’s fun for them and a great way for the
resort to entertain their vacationers.”
Beginning in June, he will once again be
in Cape Cod, and his goal is to build more
nighttime sculptures.
“Depending on the size of the
sculpture, it can take between four and
five hours to complete one piece.”
Previously, he says, “I built a sand castle
that was about six feet tall. It was angled so the
setting sun shone through the windows where
I had placed some colored glass. It was pretty
amazing. This year, I hope to build a sand castle
that includes some LED lighting so it can be
seen after sundown.”
Convery’s hobby-turned-summer business
is something he relishes.
“It’s the mindful meditation I really enjoy,”
he says. “The opportunity to relax and have
a creative outlet is something I like. It also
helps me during the school year with the
children I teach. It helps me focus on their
needs and interests and work on different
tasks they enjoy.”
But what happens when the tide comes
in and washes away his art?
“It’s OK,” Convery says. “It reminds me
to enjoy the art in the moment. And the
next day I have a clean canvas to begin again.”
To follow Brian Convery’s work
in Cape Cod, go to his blog:
http://sandywork60.blogspot.com. ■
Moon Township | Summer 2016 | icmags.com 15