Sandcastle Days sculptors race to protect artwork from incoming rain on South Padre Island
Related Story
South Padre Island, TX (KRGV) — Sandcastle Days is underway on South Padre Island, but rain in the forecast has sculptors and organizers working to protect their creations.
Sand sculptors are racing to finish their work as wet weather moves into the area. Organizers are using a spray-on solution to help shield the sculptures from moisture.
"We spray them, and that just puts a crust like an M&M candy coating. It doesn't keep the sculptures standing, but it keeps them from soaking up rain, and that's when things begin to disintegrate," Sandcastle Days co-organizer Lucinda Wierenga said.
In a statement issued Thursday morning on Facebook, the organization said all sculptures will be completed and judged that same day and are expected to stand until the tide or the city takes them out.
The protection starts even before the sculpting begins. Canadian sculptor Karen Fralick said the sand itself is treated ahead of time.
"The sand preparations before we even carve it are what make it stay. Biodegradable Elmer's glue and water, and that gives it a crust, and it's amazing how that crust and the compacted sand are. It's incredibly strong," Fralick said.
Fralick travels thousands of miles every year to take part in the festival. She said a little rain is not going to stop her.
"We'll just roll with it, but a little bit of rain is not a big deal. It won't do anything to them. Moderate rain will probably speckle them. It takes a lot to do damage. It's a lot tougher than you think," Fralick said.
"This place is absolutely magical," she said.
Organizers said they will keep an eye on the forecast, and any changes to the event will be announced on Facebook.
Watch the video above for the full story.
News
