Tag Archives: new hampshire

June 18, 2025

2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

Date Of Event: June 12-14

Location: Hampton Beach, 100 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA, 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)

Summary: 10 sand sculptors from all over the world competed in the 25th annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic

Turtles, dream homes and mermaids were just a few of the meticulously crafted sand sculptures on display during the 2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.

But, before the artists begin working on their grand sculptures, they all work together to make the center stage sculptures based on the theme of the competition along with a few sculptures for the sponsors of the event. The theme of this year’s event was “Sand Safari.”

Regardless of the theme of the event, the sculptors are free to make sculptures of any theme they wish. And, each sculpture had an interesting story behind them. Some of the meanings and messages behind the sculptures are fairly straight forward, like the first sculpture posted below.

“Monkey Mind” by Andy Daily (Sarasota, Florida). When I first saw this sculpture I thought the face of the person was Fred Flintstone. Then, just some old guy. It’s actually someone much more well known. Apparently, I should watch the news more often.

“It Won’t Stay Forever” by Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) won third place in the competition.

“Resilience” by David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada). Ducharme described its meaning as, “something that finds life in really a harsh environment” much like how seeds growing through pavement and how it mirrors how people can be strong during difficult times.

“Aligned” by Meliniege Beauregard (Captain Cook, Hawaii) won 1st place as well as the “People’s Choice Award” voted on by the visitors of the sand sculpting event and the “Governor’s Choice Award” voted on by Governor Kelly Ayotte.

Beauregard’s piece is about balance and being aligned your external and internal beauty and well being. She said it was about how when you’re centered and you can align your mental, emotional and physical elements so you can create beauty and be creative.

“Manitouk” by Carl Jara (Cleveland, Ohio)

Jara said “Manitouk” is an Ojibwe term loosely meaning “protector spirit.” According to Jara, this sculpture was a response to the big block of sand and how he saw something different in it than what he had initially planned.

“The Creation Of Mermaid” by Ilya Filimontsev (Moscow, Russia) won second place. Filimontsev said his sculpture was his playful take on the painting of the Creation of Adam by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel.

“Sing” by Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada). Although this sculpture did not win an award or place in the competition, it was still a fan favorite. It was also one of the few sculptures that may have a better design on the back than the front. Fralich said “singing is important for everyone.” Even for non humans!

“To Touch The Stars” by Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia) was a tribute to the artist’s son. This sculpture idea came from when he asked his son what he should make and his son answered a turtle.

“Dream Weaver” by Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA) is a reflection of the 25 years of the sculpting competition and all of the things he has learned during his 24 competitions. That’s right. He has competed in all but one of the sand sculpting classic competitions. Gordon said he combined things like open windows and scallops from his time in Kuwait as examples of things he has learned to sculpt over the years.

“VerTickle” by Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island) won fourth place and, perhaps the most coveted award, the “Sculptor’s Choice Award.” Since the other sculptors know how difficult it is to make these sculptures, one could argue it is the most meaningful award. A play on “vertical”, the sculpture, in Gordon’s words, is “self explanatory.”

Like many people from New England, and, as I noticed from my interactions with people and the various license plates in the parking spaces, from all over the country, I look forward to this event every year. It is also the precursor to the official start of summer. And there may be no better way to kick off the season!

If you did miss the sculptures, don’t fret. They will be on display at Hampton Beach until Monday, June 23.

18 Comments | tags: art, Hampton, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, sand sculptures, sculpture, travel | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

June 23, 2024

2024 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event” June 20-22, 2024

Location: Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA or 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)

Cost: Free

Parking: There is metered parking and several parking lots in the Hampton Beach area. See below for specific details about parking at Hampton Beach

Parking At Hampton Beach

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Summary: Some of the most renown sand sculptures from around the world competed at Hampton Beach in the 24th annual Sand Sculpting Classic event.

“Sand Wars” have come to Hampton Beach! At least that is the theme of this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic.

The center sand sculpture at the Sand Sculpting Classic event has a different theme each year. And, as you may have guessed, the “sand Wars” theme is a play on “Star Wars.” All of the sand sculptors work together to make these impressive sand sculptures. Oddly, the Sand People were not included in these sand sculptures.

While “Sand Wars” was the theme for the center sculptures, the sculptors could make sculptures for any topic or subject.

Battling both a heat wave earlier in the contest to rain on the last day (it is New England after all), the sand sculptors had to work through some difficult conditions. But, as you will see below, the weather didn’t deter them from creating some spectacular works of art.

I am posting the sand sculptures in the order they are located at the beach (from left to right)

“Skin Deep” by Andy Dailey (Sarasota, FL)

The first sand sculpture “Skin Deep” by Andrew Dailey is a sculpture in the form of a mermaid. He said his piece was a statement on the many limitations on what some put on beauty.

“A Step Beyond” – Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) Second Place

Dmitry Klimenko’s sculpture won second place with his sculpture for “A Step Beyond.”

Inception – Melineige Beauregard (Captain Cook, HI) Third Place

Beauregard, who won first place in the competition last year, took third place with “Inception.” She said her sculpture was inspired by how life is “linked through DNA and all of nature.”

“Sofia’s Cradle” – David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada) First Place

In his debut appearance at the Sand Sculpting Classic, Ducharme won first place. His inspiration for this sculpture came in a dream. Recently, Ducharme had a dream about Sofia, the Greek goddess of wisdom. The nest or “cradle” under the goddess is meant to be the nest where wisdom is nurtured.

“Orphan” – Carl D Jara (Lyndhurst, OH) Sculptor’s Choice Award Winner

Carl, who has participated in all 24 sand sculpting events, said this sculpture which depicts a woman surrounded by two extinguished candles was influenced by the loss of both of his parents. His sculpture won the Sculptor’s Choice Award which is voted on by the competing sculptors. Since it is voted by their peers, it is a highly coveted award.

“Imprisoned” – Bruce Phillips (San Diego, CA)

Bruce said his sculpture is about people trapped in mental health issues. The panels surrounding the skull represent the barriers of mental illness.

“Artio” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada) People’s Choice Award Winner & The Governor’s Award Winner

Karen said her sculpture was a tribute to the Celtic bear goddess. She also said it represents the strength of a mother bear who protects the Earth. Karen won the People’s Choice Award which is voted on by the people who visit the event as well as the Governor’s Award which was voted on by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu.

“Neptune Rising” – Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA)

“Open Your Mind & Awaken Your Inner Child” – Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia)

Ile, another newcomer to the event, said this sculpture was inspired by his 20 month old son. Ile jokingly said his son is a “nice troublemaker.” He said he wanted to portray the child as being both playful and happy while the man is very serious, much like himself. He said it is kind of like a self portrait.

“We All Fall Down” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island)

There was also a sand sculpture dedicated to the Boston Celtics because of their recent NBA Finals Championship. It is their 18th championship in the team’s history.

As you may have noticed, the inspirations and explanations of the sculptures are just as interesting and moving as the sculptures. Finding about the background of these sculptures adds so much to the artistic value of them.

I wasn’t sure when to go to the beach because of the various, changing weather forecasts predicting scattered showers. Lucky for me, I happened to wake up early enough to get there before the rain started. But, the threat of rain kept a lot of people from going to the beach which allowed me to get photos without many people in the background. As I was finishing the photo shoot it just began to rain. And, if you zoom in and look closely, you may see the rain and even some rain drops on the sculptures.

These sculptures will be up until Wednesday, June 26. They will also be lit up for night time viewing.

32 Comments | tags: Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, sand sculptures | posted in Hampton Beach, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures

January 2, 2024

2023 Rewind Part 3 – Holidays, Events And People

By New England Nomad

Date Of Post: January 2, 2023

Location: All over New England

Summary: I have photographed a lot of events and people last year. Below are some of my favorites!

Welcome to part 3 and the final installment of my 2023 rewind. In this post I will be showing my photos of events and people from a variety of places around New England.

2023 was a busy year for events and celebrations! One of my favorite annual events I like to photograph is the Salem’s So Sweet festival in Salem, MA in February. Two dozen ice sculptures were displayed throughout Salem. The sculptures are lit up each night which makes them even more fun to photograph! Below are just a few of my favorite sculptures.

Some of the sculptures had lights that changed colors.

Only one of these images is an actual sculpture. Grizzly was nice enough to pose for this photo.

Another event I was fortunate enough to photograph was the Celtic Celebration in March at Old Sturbridge Village. The Celtic Celebration was a celebration of how Sturbridge celebrated the holiday in the past. Lee (MA) Irish Dance performed Irish dances

And Celtic Harpist Cate Mahoney performed Celtic songs.

There were also quite a few sand sculpture attractions and competitions during the summer.

The annual Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail in Yarmouth, MA, featured 32 sand sculptures located throughout Yarmouth and Dennis. These are just a few of my favorites. All sculptures were made by Fitzy Snowman

The, of course there was the annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic in June.

Melineige Beauregard won first place at the competition for her sculpture “Love Is A Universal Temple.”

Sadly, most of the sand sculptures at the Revere Beach sand sculpting competition were damaged or entirely destroyed by all of the heavy rain during the event. However, one sculpture did withstand the inclement weather conditions. Appropriately, it was the sculpture of King Kong.

I also came across a few sand sculptures in Rhode Island during the summer. They were sculpted in preparation for the Atlantis Rising sand sculpting event in October. Unfortunately, I could not make it to that one!

I made it out to Rhode Island again for the Green Animals Topiary Garden in July. The topiary featured a variety of animals sculpted out of the greenery.

In addition to the various sculptures of animals, the topiary also had a special exhibit by Sean Kenney. The Sean Kenney Nature Connects exhibit included several sculptures entirely made out of Legos!

I also made out to Newport, Rhode Island, to photograph the Umbrella Sky display.

And the Newport Kite Festival at Brenton Point, Newport, RI.

I also made it out to Salem MA, for my annual Halloween photos.

And I was able to photograph the Salem Zombie Walk.

But, one of the most fun and interesting photo shoots I did last year was the Beep Baseball event in September. Beep baseball is baseball played by visually impaired players.

After the game, I made it out to the Salem Lawn Vintage Party. Various dancers with various dancing skills cut a rug (lawn?) with music provided by Annie and the Fur Trappers.

Last but not least, I took in a trip to, of course, Salem, MA, to check out their Christmas decorations.

And, there were a few special visitors during my visit! And, I though, you weren’t supposed to be able to catch the Gingerbread Man!

The Gingerbread man was in Salem as part of an ad campaign by The Good Witch. Only in Salem.

And what would Christmas be without a trip to Yankee Candle Shop in Deerfield, MA!

So, as you can see, 2023 was a pretty busy year for me! And I look for to doing a lot more in 2024!

19 Comments | tags: Massachusetts, New England, new hampshire, photograhy, Rhode Island, Salem, sand sculpting, sand sculptures, travel | posted in New England, photographs, photography, photos, travel, Uncategorized

July 2, 2023

New Hampshire Marine Memorial (Hampton Beach, Hampton, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits:

Location: Hampton Beach,

Parking:

Cost: Free

New England has a long history of sea faring servicemen and women. Tragically, some of these people were lost to the sea.

These people may have been lost but they are not forgotten. Certainly not by the people of Hampton, New Hampshire or the people who visit the New Hampshire Marine Memorial.

Each year, thousands of people take selfies, admire the beauty of the statue or sit on the bench at the memorial.

I took these photos of the memorial on two different days. The first set of photos were taking after I took photos of the sand sculptures from this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach and the second set were taken on June 25. Since there are usually crowds there, I went early to avoid the crowds and to get the photos with the serene morning light.

Dedicated to all New Hampshire servicepersons lost at sea due to warfare, the New Hampshire Marine Memorial is a mid-sized statue of New England granite on a tiered granite base. A woman holding a wreath casts her gaze along the water.

Inscribed on the upper (middle) step is the phrase BREATHE SOFT, YE WINDS, YE WAVES IN SILENCE REST. These words are from a poem by John Gay, written in 1714, in his “An Epistle to a Lady.”

Originally, 248 names in 10 rows were added to the back of the memorial with the state seal at each end. Sadly, over time, names have been added. The last name added was on Aug 6, 2022 when Marine Cpl. Jonathan Currier’s name was added to the monument. The 21 year old Cpl. Currier, from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, went overboard in the Sulu Sea off the Philippine coast on Aug. 9, 2018.

What few people may know is the memorial didn’t start out as a memorial. What would become one of the most recognizable memorials in New Hampshire, if not New England, originally began as a grave marker.

William E. Downs of Manchester, NH, had inquired see if the federal government would furnish a grave marker for his son, Captain William D Downs, who was buried at sea May 25, 1945. Little did he know at the time his request would result in such a well known memorial for all service people lost at sea. The memorial would go on to become a memorial to all New Hampshire sons and daughters lost or buried at sea during World War II. In fact, it would go on to remember those lost after World War II.

However, the quest to get the memorial built was a long one. Initially, Downs’ request to have a grave marker built was denied. But Downs did not give up. After many proposals, such as placing the memorial at “Pulpit Rock” at Rye Beach and, after that proposal fell through, “Ragged Neck” at Rye Harbor, Downs was able to gain the support of a memorial from Governor Sherman Adams in 1950. Eventually, the then Governor Hugh Gregg agreed to have the memorial built at Hampton Beach. The statue was dedicated on May 30, 1957 (fittingly Memorial Day). On Veterans Day, 1970, the American Legion Post 35 of the Hamptons, dedicated two flag poles at the monument, which fly the American and state flags.

As you can tell by the events and actions outlined below, there were a lot of people involved in the creation of this memorial.

A design by Concord (NH) resident Alice E. Cosgrove was approved for the 12 foot statue.

Cambridge, Massachusetts sculptor, Teodors Uzarins, was commissioned to model the life-size statue in clay at the Caproni Galleries in Boston. Uzarins, worked closely with Alice, to produce the features that everyone who has seen it remembers.

A 24-ton granite block from Swenson’s Granite Quarries of Concord to sculpt the memorial. That 24 ton granite block was then shipped to Barre, Vermont where it was shaped. It was then sent to Hampton after 17 tons of that block had been removed by Italian artisan, Vincenzo Andreani of Marr and Gordon, Inc., Granite Works. Andreani used a plaster cast of the lady in the memorial for point-by-point measurements.

All of this hard work paid off, as the memorial is not only a respectful tribute to those who have served the country honorably. It is also one of the most recognizable sculptures in New Hampshire.

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:New England Nomad

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9 Comments | tags: New Englaand, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, sculpture | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sculpture

October 7, 2022

22nd Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: June 19, 2022

Location: Hampton Beach, 169 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Cost: Free

Parking: Metered parking is available at Hampton Beach. Since this is a popular event, parking is also available at various lots usually for $20 for the day during this event, although prices fluctuate based on the time of day and parking availability

For more parking information see below

https://www.hahttps://www.hamptonbeach.com/directions-parkingmptonbeach.com/directions-parking

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Websites:

https://hamptonbeach.org/events/sand-sculpture-event/

https://hamptonbeach.org/events/sand-sculpture-event/contestants/s:

Summary: Sand sculptors from all over the globe competed for the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting grand prize

It may seem strange to talk to about sand sculptures and the beach during October. But, what better way to feel warm and cozy during these colder days than looking back to this annual summer event.

The theme for this year’s sand sculpture event, which began in 2000, was “The Greatest Show On Earth.” All of the competitors contributed to sculpting the main sculptures for this theme.

I made two visits to the beach to view the sand sculptures which may explain the difference in light and shade in the photos.

I am posting the photos in the order they were located on the beach and including info about each sculpture whenever background details were available..

“Transition” – Rusty Croft (Carmel, CA)

4th Place

As is evident by the gravestone like sculpture, this sculpture is a tribute to a loved one who has “transitioned.” This sculpture placed 4th in the competition. As I was photographing these works of art I found it

“Primal” – Chris Guinto (Captain Cook, HI)

Chris, originally from Florida but currently residing in Hawaii, is no stranger to the competition or to winning awards. He won the Sculptor’s Choice Award in 2021.

He described his dinosaur skeleton (or as he called it “spineasaurus”) coming to life. As you will see as a common feature of these sculptures, the attention to detail is incredible.

“I Am Life” – Melineige Beauregard (Hawaii)

1st Prize and People’s Choice

Melineige, who won the competition in 2017, repeated her standard of excellence with “I Am Life” bringing home first place.

She said the sculpture was based on the “flower of life” design that is present in all of nature and life. According to Melineige, this pattern connects us all through flowers and nature. The front side represents the “flower of life” while the back side represents the death and destruction that is also present in our lives.

“Knowledge Is Limited. Imagination Encircles The World” – John Gowdy (Italy/New Jersey)

This sculpture, based on a quote by Albert Einstein, uses symbols like books, an owl and pen and paper to show the different ways to express knowledge. Again, the attention to detail is amazing.

“Wyvern Whisperer” – Greg Grady (Derry, NH)

Governor’s Choice Award

Grady, another regular competitor and founder of the sand sculpture event, said the inspiration for the sand sculpture the Wyvern (pronounced (why-vurn) Whisperer was his son. His son asked him to make a dragon and they settled on a two legged dragon (wyverns are 2 legged dinosaurs) and he modeled the smaller figure on his son who likes to play “super hero.”

“Linked” – Bruce Phillips (San Diego, CA)

Bruce, from San Diego, CA, said his sculpture represents people and working together.

“Trolls” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada)

2md Place

The meaning of this sculpture seems straight forward. Troll-like figures hug, offer treasures and act friendly to the crowned figure while they attempt to stab and mock him to his back

“Entropy” – Carl Jara (Lyndhurst, OH)

3rd Place

“Entropy”, in short a randomness or disorder in the system, certainly does show a disorder and randomness. Jara’s sculpture placed 3rd in the event.

“Let There Be Peace On Earth And Let It Begin With Me” – Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA)

“Hierarchy Of Needs” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island, Canada)

Unfortunately, Abe’s sand sculpture collapsed due to weather conditions. So, a photograph of the sculpture was put in its place.

The sand sculptures are usually kept up for a week (in this case until June 26). The sculptures are also lit up for night viewing.

10 Comments | tags: Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photograhy, photos, sand sculptures | posted in Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

August 6, 2021

Sunrise In The Sunflowers (Coppal House Farm, Lee, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: August 6, 2021 (the annual event is usually held the first Sunday in August)

Location: Coppal House Farm, 118 N. River Rd (rt 155) Lee, NH (about 45 mins southeast of Concord, NH, or one and a half hours northeast of Boston, MA)

Cost: The prices vary depending on when you go and your age. Prices can be found at the link below

https://www.nhsunflower.com/sunflower-festival-info

Parking There was lawn parking for about a couple hundred cars

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: No this was not a dog friendly event

Website: https://www.nhcornmaze.com/

Summary: Coppal House Farm hosted their 7th annual Sunrise In The Sunflowers Festival

Summer, sunrises and sunflower. Who could possibly ask for more?

On August 1, he Coppal House Farm turned their farm into a sunflower paradise.

I arrived at Coppal House Farm bright and early for the “Sunrise In The Sunflowers” event which is particularly popular with photographers of all skill levels. I was surprised to see such a healthy crowd at 5:30 am. As the name of the event would suggest, the sunflowers really do pop with the rays of sun beaming on them. Initially, I was shocked to see the sunflowers were not facing the view of the sunrise. But, then it made complete sense as the sunbeams really hit the flowers and brought out their beauty. This time of day (the golden hour) is the optimal and, in my opinion, only time to photograph these flowers (except for possibly sunset).

I didn’t realize there were other types of sunflowers besides the yellow sunflowers that are so prominent.

There were also several props and decor for people to pose near for portrait shoots.

But there weren’t just sunflowers at the house farm.

There were a variety of different flowers at the farm.

There were also a few spooky trees at the event.

If you do visit Coppal House Farm don’t forget to buy a sunflower to take home or view the animals at the farm.

8 Comments | tags: Coppal House Farm, flowers, Lee, New Englaand, new hampshire, Photography, photos, sunflowers, sunrise, Sunrise In The Sunflowers | posted in flowers, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sunflowers

June 26, 2021

21st Annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Event: June 17 -19, 2021

Location: Hampton Beach, 115 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Hours: The beach is accessible daily from dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

Parking: Hampton Beach offers a variety of parking options. If you’re lucky enough to get a parking spot in the main parking area it is $2 an hour during the summer. There are also additional lots that range from 5 to 20 dollars for the day depending on when you arrive. See link for additional parking info: Parking Info

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes but dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer

Website: https://hamptonbeach.org/event-listing/21st-annual-hampton-beach-sand-sculpting-classic/

Highlights: sand sculptures

Summary: Ten artists converged upon Hampton Beach to sculpt pieces of work.

Nothing says summer like long days of sunlight, road trips and, of course, sand sculptures. And as proof of this, Hampton Beach has ushered in the season with their 21st annual sand sculpting classic.

Ten sculptors from all the world put their talents to work at the sculpting competition. But, before the contest began the competitors collaborated to build the 100 ton main sponsor site sculpture. The sculpture pays tribute to the New Hampshire Marine Memorial statue which is located at the beach, the lifeguards who help to keep the beach safe and the sea life of the area.

The competition began on Jun 17 and ended on the 19th. Two hundred tons of sand are used for the sculptures and each competitor was given a plot size of 18×18 to complete their work on.

Although I haven’t been able to attend the actual sand sculpting competition the past few years, I do make sure to visit the day after the competition to photograph the sculptures in their pristine state. Even though I arrived at sunrise, there was already a healthy crowd at the beach and it was hard to get some photos with people in the background. But by using some creative angles and with some patience I was able to get most of the photos without any beachgoers in them.

After hours of grueling work, the winners were announced June 19th.

The winning sculpture “Empty” was sculpted by Abe Waterman of Prince Edward Island, Canada. Abe said he came up with the idea for this sculpture about a year and a half ago after his separation from his wife.

Second place was awarded to Melineige Beauregard of Montreal, Canada for “Rebirth Of Phoenix.” Melineige won the first place award last year.

Karen Fralich of Toronto Canada snagged third place with he sculpture, “Poker Face.”

And fourth place was awarded to Thomas Koet of Satellite Beach, Florida, for his sculpture, “Multiple Piercings.” Thomas also won the “People’s Choice Award” for his 2020 sculpture.

Chris Guinto of Key West, Florida, won the “Sculptor’s Choice Award” for his “Continuum” sculpture.

I don’t envy the judges who had to decide on the winning sculptures. They were all so well done.

The remaining sculptures are, in no particular order,

“Behind Every Successful Man There is a Strong Woman” by John Gowdy of Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“Pulled” by Carl D. Jara from Lyndhurst, Ohio

“Once Bitten” by Greg Grady of Derry, New Hampshire.

“Laugh” by Dan Belcher of Saint Louis, Missouri.

“Miss You, My Friend” by Justin Gordon of Groveland, Massachusetts. For some reason this one touched a chord with me.

Wally and the Plymouth Rock assurance mascot were also part of the sand sculpture celebration.

There was also a sand sculpture dedicated to retired police officer Jack Donaldson who passed away earlier this year from cancer. Jack worked both as a teacher and as a part time officer for 50 years.

The sand sculptures are lit up at night and they are removed after a week or two. So they may no longer be there. At least not until next year!

15 Comments | tags: beach, Hampton, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, sand sculptures, summer | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, photographs, photography, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

June 25, 2019

19th Annual Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 23, 2019

Location: Hampton Beach, 115 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH

Hours: The beach is accessible daily from dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes but dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer

Websites: Hampton Beach 19th Annual Master Sand Sculpting Classic

Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic Facebook Page

Hampton Beach

Highlights: sand sculptures

Summary: Ten artists converged upon Hampton Beach to sculpt pieces of work.

Sand sculptors from all over North America showed off their talents during a two day sand sculpting festival at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. If you missed the event but you want to see the works of art in person, don’t fret. The sand sculptures should be up for a while, or at least until Mother Nature says differently. They will be lit up at night until June 27.

In the past, I have spent the second day of the festival at the beach watching and photographing the sculptors at work. However, this was not possible this year. I thought I would head off to the park early Sunday instead. The beach was already packed when I arrived at 7:30 (don’t people sleep in anymore?). But, I was able to get shots of the finished products and a few of the visitors at the beach.

So, with further delay, the winners were…drum roll please…

The winners, which were selected Saturday, June 22, and runner-ups are listed below.

First place went to Melineige Beauregard of Quebec, Canada for “Breaking Out.” Melineige’s sculpture represents people breaking out of our old habits. The child in the back of the sculpture represents our “inner child” breaking out.

IMG_9940-2

Karen Fralich of Toronto, Canada, snagged second place with “Samurai.” Karen said she saw a photo of a female samurai while she was looking through old photos with her mother and that was the impetus for this work. You may notice needle like objects protruding from the sculpture below and in some of the other sand sculptures. These are meant to keep birds from perching on the sand sculptures.

Third place and also the winner of the “People’s Choice” (in which the visitors at the festival were allowed to vote for their favorite sculpture) and the “Sculptor’s Choice” awards went to Abe Waterman of Prince Edward Island for “Outside In.” He said his sculpture was about how we perceive others and how others perceive us.

“Life Goes On” by David Andrews of Wisconsin placed fourth in the competition. Like many of the artists at the competition, this was not his first rodeo at Hampton Beach. Andrews participated in last year’s competition as well. David said his sculpture was a tree that grew in the remains of a wreckage.

Fifth place went to another Hampton sand sculptor regular, Greg Grady of New Hampshire for “Ask. Seek. Knock.” Greg said his sculpture was about a person seeking answers and reaching out for a spirit and seeking answers to his problems.

The runner ups were still impressive. It almost seems unfair to have to pick one particular sculpture for first place since they all have so much beauty and it is such a subjective process.

“Connected” by Chris Guinto of Key West, Florida, is about a bird flying away from tree it is connected to.

“Plastic” by Carl D Jara of Cleveland, Ohio, explained that he had been thinking of plastic a lot before he planned this sculpture but his thoughts about the idea were negative. He decided to think more positively and this sculpture was the result.

IMG_9976-2

Marc Lepire from Quebec, Canada, who works not only with sand but also carves ice and wood, sculpted “No Fear.” He said his “dark side” came out while was constructing his piece.

Dan Belcher of Saint Louis, Missouri, sculpted “Hemisphere.” He said that by having a happy face and a sad face in the sculpture, the sculpture shows how we can be a mixture of good and bad. The sculpture depicts our contrasts.

Justin Gordon of Massachusetts created “Hulk 3-D.” According to Justin, the sculpture shows a 3-d like image. By making one hand bigger than the other, Justin tried to show motion in the sculpture. He also said everyone seems to be interested in super hero movies and we’re all looking for a super hero these days. So the sculpture seemed appropriate.

There were also a few cute visitors to view the sand sculptures.

Missy, who will turn 9 in September, is a Golden/Chow mix.

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Chopper is a 3 year old Staffordshire mix.

Cody, a 7 year old Maltese, got around in style at the beach.

10 Comments | tags: beach, dogs, Hampton, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, sand sculptures | posted in dogs, Hampton Beach, New England, new hampshire, sand sculptures, Uncategorized

June 22, 2018

18th Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Event: June 14-16 (usually annually, the second or third weekend in June)

Location: Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH

Cost: Free

Hours: the sculptures are accessible for viewing all day until June 27, except between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. when the beach is closed

Parking: Parking info can be found here

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Tips: The sculptures will be able to be viewed at night when they illuminate the area

2016 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Competition

Website: Hampton Sand Sculpture Event

Sculptors don’t just sculpt wood, ice and clay. In fact, some of the world’s best sculptors like to play in the sand. And that’s exactly what they were doing last weekend at Hampton Beach, NH.

The theme of this year’s sand sculpture of the sponsors of the event was “The Aliens Have Come To Hampton Beach.” All of the featured sculptors contributed to this sculptor.

The massive sand sculpture included a memorial to Canadian sculptor and regular Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic competitor Michel Lepire.

Michel passed away earlier this year. But, his son, Marc Lepire, did participate and made a special tribute for his dad in his own sculpture.

The competition included 10 sand sculptures, not included the sponsors’ sculptures, with sculptors from all over the globe.

Visitors to the beach were allowed to view the sculptures up close on the beach at 1 o’clock and given a ticket to put in a bucket next to their choice. While it is great to be able to get so close to the sculptures and I did take photographs while I could get close to them, the sculptors have until 4 to complete their works. And, of course, they use every minute at their disposal usually. So, I didn’t end up posting most of the photos I took at 1. But, I did cast a vote (for “Influence” by Carl Jara). Then, I waited a few more hours so I could photograph the sculptures in their completed states. Time goes by pretty quickly at the beach, though. So I didn’t mind waiting. After all, I’m a pretty patient person, except when I am driving.

When the votes for the sculptures by the official judges were finally tallied the winners were recognized and given their awards ($3,000 for first place) and a fireworks display capped off the festivities. Below are the top ranked sculptures and the also rans.

First place went to “Temptation” by Abe Waterman of Prince Edward Island.

Melineige Beauregard of Montreal nabbed second place with her sculpture “Rising.”

Dan Belcher of Missouri swam into third place with “Water Dance.” This was certainly one of the larger sculptures. It must have taken many hours to make all of these shapes and designs.

“Influence” by Carl Jara of Ohio came in fourth place. he also won the “Sculptor’s Choice” award which must be very rewarding since it is voted on by his peers.

David Andrews of Wisconsin came in fifth place with “Ancestral Swirl.”

The “People’s Choice” award which the visitors got to vote for went to Marc Lepire of Quebec for “Wind Lovers.”

The remaining sculptures are listed below. I was actually surprised that some of them, like “Winging It” by Delayne Corbett of Vancouver did not place in the voting. Since ikt had so much intricate detail I thouggh tit was sure to be in the top 5. But there was so much competition at the event. So, even some of the best sculptures didn’t make top rankings.

“Defeating The Darkness” by Justin Gordon of Groveland, MA, was another sculpture I thought may have been overlooked. There’s a lot of wonderful detail in this one.

This futuristic looking sculpture called “Three Phase Steam Phork” was sculpted by California sculpture Kirk Radimaker.

There’s something about the sculpture “Joy” by Karen Fralich.

I’m not sure if it’s the name of the sculpture, the seemingly carefree child or the butterflies sporadically placed throughout the sculpture. But, something about this sculpture makes me smile.

If you missed the sand sculptures last weekend, don’t worry. They will be on display until Wednesday, June 27. They also illuminate the area for night viewing if you can’t make it there during the day time.

The wires you may see sticking out of the tops of some of the sculptures, shown sticking out of the head of the sculpture in the photo below, are meant to deter birds from landing on.

No matter. Some birds still found a way to land on them.

The sand sculpting event had more than just sculptures, though. There were other family friendly activities as well such as face painting.

There were also so many cute dogs at the event.

Watson is a 5 year old Dalmatian Coonhound. he was adopted from the Pope Memorial SPCA.

Jackson, a 5 year old Great Dane, was another gentle giant. He was a little hard to get to look at me because his dad was parking the car and he kept looking to his left and right in the hopes of seeing his human.

Greta is a 7 year old German Drahthaar.

Bailey, who will be 6 months Sunday the 25th (yes she is a Christmas baby), is a Teacup Yorkie. She was dressed to the nines for her day at the beach.

Some dogs are a little shy of my camera. This was the case with Luna, a 1 year old pit and lab mix. At least at first. But, she warmed up to the camera pretty quickly.

Bailey is a 6 month Standard Poodle. With her fluffy fur, she reminded me of a big teddy bear.

Buddy, a 14 year old Cairn Terrier, was certainly not in Kansas anymore. That’s right, Buddy is the exact same breed as Toto from The Wizard Of Oz movie. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. Just look out for the “flying monkeys.”

Brady, who was named after a certain local sports star, is an 11 month old Cavachon. Are you saying to yourself, Cava what? I did too. His folks told me he is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise mix.

And, last but not least, Tyzon, a Boxer, will be 5 years old in September. It had been a long day taking photographs and I was ready to get ready to head home. Then, when I saw Tayzon I decided to take out my camera for one more dog photo. He was very accommodating and the kids loved petting him. And he loved the pets he recieved.

6 Comments | tags: dogs, Hampton Beach, New Englaand, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, sand sculpting, sand sculptures | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculpting, Uncategorized

May 25, 2018

Kite Day (Hampton Beach, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: May 20, 2018

Location: Hampton Beach, 160 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH (about an hour north of Boston, MA and an hour northeast of Nashua, NH)

Hours: Hampton Beach is open everyday. The beach is closed from 1 a.m. until sunrise.

Parking: Parking cost me $2 an hour during my visit (pre-Memorial Day). There are various parking options and rates at Hampton Beach. You can find the parking rates here. There are also several parking lots that generally charge $20 for all day parking during the late spring and summer seasons.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: kites, kite flying

Fun Facts:

Recently, “kite day” has also served as the “Kites Against Cancer” event in which funds are raised to fight cancer (the event was cancelled this year)
In addition to the visitors kites, the beach staff tie up several jumbo sized kites of their own

Website: Kites Against Cancer