When we began the creative process for Riverbend Beach, we were well aware that nothing like this had ever been done in Chattanooga before and we would be starting from scratch. So we quickly decided that when it comes to the challenging logistics of constructing an urban beach, we needed some professional assistance. After a little research, we hired Team Sandtastic from Sarasota, Florida to create a masterpiece sand sculpture at Riverbend Beach.

To some, building sand sculptures for a living may sound like a pipe dream, but for Team Sandtastic’s founder, Mark Mason, it’s a dream come true. Mason and three other sculptors and various associates create an average of 50 to 60 sand sculptures a year at locations around the globe. They have 30 years of sand sculpting experience, World Champion titles, and a Guinness Book World Record.

Using sand and water, they create sculptures up to 28-feet tall. The detailed process is exciting to watch as Team Sandtastic’s artists sculpt from the top down using a wide range of tools, from rakes and shovels to cake decorating spatulas and dental instruments.

In 2010, Team Sandtastic constructed an amazing 220-ton sand sculpture at Riverbend Beach featuring Chattanooga landmarks. Team Sandtastic’s performance was a huge hit last year, and is certain to be one of the most talked about events of Riverbend 2011. So be sure and stop by Riverbend Beach for their encore performance and watch them create another original work of art.