Sand sculpture trails are a fantastic way to engage local communities, encouraging them to visit parts of cities, towns and locations that they may not frequently visit already.
At the very start of the year Sam, from East Lindsey District Council got in touch to discuss planning some events. They had been awarded funding from the Arts Council and were putting together a program of new and exciting activities, shows and events for 2024.
Booking the Date
Very quickly the date was booked for a two week Sutton-on-Sea Sand Sculpture Trail. It was to take place shortly after the Sutton-On-Sea Side – Sand Drawing and Workshops event facilitated by us as part of their Vintage Weekend a little later that year.
From Friday 2 August participants were invited to search for ten hidden sand sculptures along the seafront and surrounding area. Each sculpture had accompanying information to inform people on the history and heritage of the Lincolnshire coast.
Time in the Studio
Mark and Peter spent time here in the studio on the run up to the event, constructing brand new custom built plinths the perfect size to display each sculpture. Peter even took his seat at the sewing machine putting together the carefully thought out ‘skirts’ for each of the new display plinths.
The day before the instillation team was set to travel the vans were very cleverly packed in an order that made sense for when it came to delivering and installing the sand sculptures at each location.
Dave, Peter, Jonathan and Mark drove down in two vans on Thursay 1st August and got straight on with delivering and installing the first of the ten sculptures to in The Dolphin Fish and chip shop. Where of course they stayed and had their tea.
Sand Sculptures Around Town
It was an early start for the team the following morning, as they split in to two pairs and worked together visiting each of the other 9 locations where they were greeted by very friendly business owners ready to receive the sculpture planned in each of the location.
It was a busy day carefully moving the sand sculptures from the vans one by one. The team got to see much of the town as they went aout delivering the summer themed trail.
The event was promoted on local websites and social media outlets, so that the whole two-week period saw businesses receiving an increase in footfall as well as local feedback for the event being really positive.
Collaborating in Communities
It’s always a real joy and privilege to work with community BID teams as well as local councils. Facilitating creative workshops, installing sculpture trails and preforming live interactive shows. The Sand In Your Eye team thrive on community interaction.
The opportunity to work with a team on more than one occasion means we get to understand the complexities of individual areas and how the BIDs and Councils are working together to engage locals bringing a sense of excitement and belonging as well as improving business districts for all involved. Building this kind of relationship means we can effectively tailor future events in collaboration with the community team, to really enhance a community engagement.
