details. At the same time, it’s also a form of art that
allows him to relax and be creative.
“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
“Depending on the size of the
sculpture, it can take between four and
five hours to complete one piece.”
Cape Cod, and his goal is to build more nighttime
sculptures.
“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: sandywork60.blogspot.com. ■
Shaler | Summer 2016 | icmags.com 19