Biggles - sand sculpture

I usually don't like designing or thinking about a sculpture before I get to the location. Too many variables can make it a complete waste of brain power. From the idea not suiting the location to the vast differences in the quality of sand and compaction.

We still refer to this as a gravel carving project because the sand was so rough. Peddles connected with mud would best describe it , so designing something with too much detail wouldn't have worked and we would be hitting our heads against the sand trying to mold it to our wishes.

The location was wonderful and we were so glad to be able to make something which fit the tone of the place. De Spelerij is a magical play park for families in Dieren, The Netherlands. All the brain child of one crazy artist who makes play rides from steel which look so dangerous you'd genuinely fear for the safety of you and your child. He told me, the fact that they looked so dangerous meant that people were very cautious and up to then nobody was hurt. He was a mad inventor who welded together strange objects to make wonderful fairground attractions.

Our sculpture was to be built under some kind of tented roof to protect it from the rain. This wing shaped roof and the owner were a big inspiration for our work.

We decided it would be cool to make some sort of old school magnificent man in his flying machine. Fergus would make the machine
and I the Pilot. So, chocks away we set to work.

I envisaged this Biggles like character peddling like craze as he tried to get his craft into the air. Gripping the yoke (yes that's what it's called) with both hands. Unfortunately the sand didn't agree and one of his arms dropped off. A quick redesign later and his hand was onto another lever. It changed the dynamic of his pose from peddling like the clappers into a more laid back stance but no one would have known what I was going for if it wasn't for the above image. Not wanting to take any more risks with his legs I made him pumping bellows instead of more complex undercut peddles.

Fergus made a nice job of the flying machine and we decided to add some ropes connecting to the large wing above. This made the whole thing work as one piece.
It was a really nice and relaxed project with the Sahara Sand Team who helped organise the project. I have been to the De spelerdji three times and although the sand was always a challenge the atmosphere of the place really encourages work, rest and play.

---

Ps

The end of 2017 is fast approaching and I am getting my new year resolutions together

1. Get my workshop up and running to be more productive.
2. Get more work here in Ireland so I don't have to travel. This will allow for more time with my family.
3. Post more and interact more on Steemit. Goodbye Facebook and Instagram (now give me back my data)

Please check out some of my earlier posts below by clicking on the image.

Tools of the trade -Ice/snow sculpture

El Caganer (The shitter)- sand sculpture

I hope you'll join me again soon and have a happy and successful new year.
@ammonite