By Jenny Goggin
Sentinel Correspondent
Despite predictions of rain, the sun was out and shining over Tod’s Point for the 25th annual Sandblast Festival.
The Greenwich Arts Council teamed up with the Parks and Recreation Department to host this collaborative, creative, and community-centered event. Hundreds of cheerful beachgoers enjoyed the festival, from participating in the sand sculpting, to admiring the works of art created, all were welcome.
People of all ages and artistic backgrounds decorated the beach with their individual projects, together creating a beautiful sea of sand statues. Whether using hands, metal sculpting tools, or plastic shovels, everyone added something unique and imaginative to ornament Tod’s Point’s beautiful beach.
“Sandblast is one of the top ‘passive’ programs we do all year,” said Patricia Troiano, Recreation Supervisor for Greenwich Parks and Recreation. “It is a really nice family centered weekend activity to enjoy at our town beach, exploring and celebrating the arts.”
Riverside native and English professor Tim Lyons took part in this year’s Sandblast alongside his daughter and two grandchildren. “It’s something that all beach lovers can come to and enjoy together,” Lyons said. “It’s very creative and shows a lot of skill. It’s great for everyone to get together and have a beautiful day at our beautiful beach.”
Everyone was able to let their imaginations roam free as they created everything from fish to lobsters to ancient ruins.
Nine-year-old ISD student Flore Embrechts, joined by her three siblings, said, “I like that you can create what you want to create. I made a fish, because there are a lot of fish in the ocean.”
Embellishing her fish with shells, Embrechts said, “I’m definitely coming back next year, because it’s really fun.”
Whether participating in the sand sculpting or simply catching some rays at our town’s beautiful beach, everyone was inspired by the creativity showcased in the festival.
“I used to come here every year for at least ten years. I love watching people who have talent, and I love seeing their crafts evolve,” said Greenwich resident Donna Ferri, as she admired the sculptures transform as she walked up and down the beach. “I’m sure everyone here is just doing it because they love creating. It is a great event for the community to have, all in the fresh air. It is definitely cute seeing all of the kids.”
While meticulously making structured temples appear like magic out of the sand, Teek Eaton-Koch, an artist and art teacher in Greenwich schools, said, “It’s a tradition. It makes you feel like a kid forever. That’s what keeps me coming back.”
So if you’re in the mood to create your own sculpture, or feel the salty sand between your toes, be sure to come to next year’s Sandblast and watch the beach evolve into a museum of art right before your eyes.
Let your imagination roam free as you enter back into your carefree childhood summer days, even if it is only for a couple of hours.
