The 33rd Annual Coney Island Sandsculpting Competition transformed Brooklyn's famous beachfront into an outdoor art gallery this weekend, featuring extraordinary creations that captivated visitors with their intricate detail and artistic vision. Among the standout pieces were two majestic narwhals, a pair of feline sculptures, and an impressive elephant, all meticulously crafted from sand by talented artists.
The competition, hosted by the Alliance for Coney Island, showcased incredible artistry across multiple categories. Tony Cusicanqui claimed victory in the solo artist category with his stunning elephant sculpture, demonstrating remarkable skill in transforming ordinary beach sand into a lifelike representation of the gentle giant. Ed Lam captured the people's choice award with his delicate hummingbird and flower sculpture, which resonated with spectators who were drawn to its graceful design and attention to detail.
Family participation was equally impressive, with Fernanda Perez taking home the family group category prize for her charming sleeping cat sculpture. The piece showcased how collaborative artistic efforts can produce touching and relatable works that speak to audiences of all ages. Meanwhile, Kathy Nichols dominated the adult group category with her cleverly titled creation "I scream - you scream," a playful nod to the classic ice cream chant that perfectly captured the summer spirit of Coney Island.
The annual event has become a beloved summer tradition, drawing both participants and spectators to witness the transformation of simple sand into complex artistic expressions. Artists work against time and the elements, carefully sculpting their visions while dealing with wind, sun, and the ever-present challenge of working with such a temporary medium. The competition highlights the unique intersection of skill, creativity, and the ephemeral nature of sand art.
This year's summer 2025 competition continued the long-standing tradition of bringing world-class sand sculpting to one of New York City's most iconic beach destinations. The event not only provides entertainment for locals and tourists alike but also celebrates the artistic potential found in the most basic materials, proving that extraordinary art can emerge from the simplest elements when guided by skilled hands and creative vision.
