www.flickr.com More photos or video tagged with sandsculpture on Flickr

The SandCastle Trail has long been a dream of mine, and I have been playing around for a couple of years trying to create sand sculptures that can stand up to extreme weather and casual vandalism -- with qualified success. I am working on a page that will share my experiences and feature tips on how you can create longer-lasting sculptures as well. It is my fond belief that more people would engage in temporary sculpture projects if they could figure out how to make them last -- and I also believe that the world would be a better and lovelier place.

So. This is another effort on my part in increase the exposure of this amazing artform -- and the people who are really really good at it. If you are a sculptor, please share your projects with us! And if you aspire to be a sand sculptor, I have some tips for you:

1. Visit SandCastleCentral.com for tips, trick and pics - all FREE! Also links to established sculptors who offer instruction in various parts of the world.

2. Buy my book - SandCastlesMadeSimple.com - and some professional-grade sand carving tools at SOBshop.com :)

3. Watch the Travel Channel for episodes of "Sand Masters" and the upcoming "Sand Wars"

4. Dump a load of sand in an under-utilized spot in your backyard and get busy!

5. Post a photo of your sculpture on this map to share it with the world!