International artists return to Rhode Island for the Atlantis Rising Sand Sculpture Competition on Columbus Day weekend

WESTERLY, R.I. (WJAR) — The Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition returned to Rhode Island for Columbus Day weekend.

For the second straight year, artists from around the world gathered at Misquamicut State Beach to compete for the first-place cash prize.

Food trucks, live music, photo opportunities, and activities for the kids were available for guests of all ages.

Patrons who visit receive a “voting bean” to vote on what they think the best sand sculpture is for people’s choice. There are judges determining winners as well.

Now, it may seem that a sand sculpture competition in October is a little late, but there’s a reason.

“Our decision was based on the shoulder season,” said Louise Bishop, President of the South County Tourism Council. “Bringing people in to extend our summer longer.”

“Our goal is to fill our hotels and benefit our restaurants,” she continued.

The sculptors come from all over the world. But, some are stateside like John Gowdy from Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“It’s been five days of sculpting here,” Gowdy said. “Really good sand. We have a tent and we have sunshine, the world is good.”

Gowdy’s sand sculpture this year was called “Don’t Look,” wherein you’d look through a keyhole and see someone bathing on the other side.

“It’s a comical piece, I make people laugh,” he said. “It warms my heart, it really does to see people laugh at a pile of sand that you manipulated into a sculpture.”

Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition has one more day left on Monday. More information can be found on their website.