Sand Sculptor Karthik M. Creates Art at Marina Beach Each Dawn

On an early weekday morning at Marina Beach, the sky begins to lighten as a handful of sunrise watchers gather. Among them is Karthik M., a dedicated sand sculptor who has spent nearly three decades crafting intricate designs in the sand. Using only a flat wooden spoon and buckets of sea water, Karthik diligently works on his latest creation: a delicate replica of the Thirumalai Jain Temple in Tiruvannamalai. This ritual of creation and destruction is a daily occurrence, as each sculpture is destined to collapse by the end of the day.

Karthik’s journey as a sand artist began under the mentorship of renowned sculptor Sudarsan Pattnaik in Puri. Since moving to Chennai, he has built a reputation for his stunning sand artworks, often commissioned for events and celebrations. “Most of my earnings come from birthdays and events, and clients frequently request a sand sculpture of the Taj Mahal,” he notes. His workday typically starts at 4 a.m. at various local beaches, including Marina, Bessy (Elliots Beach), and Mahabalipuram, ensuring that his creations are complete before the crowds arrive.

Challenges of Sand Art in a Changing Climate

Despite his passion, Karthik faces significant challenges in his profession. “It has not been a steady business for the past few months, as there have been no events,” he explains. The unpredictability of the weather during the monsoon season and extreme summer days often disrupts his work. He is currently planning to build a sculpture of the Vellore Fort but requires favorable weather conditions to avoid having his hard work washed away.

The perception of sand art also poses hurdles. “Some people admire the details, while others see it as mere entertainment or look down on sand artists,” Karthik states. He believes that creating sand art is a way to show respect for this unique form of expression. Unfortunately, there is a decline in interest among younger generations, who often view it as less prestigious than other crafts.

Karthik’s tools are simple, consisting mainly of basic items like palette knives and clay sculpting tools. “Whatever I earn is just enough for me and my family. I can’t invest in high-end tools yet,” he admits. Despite these limitations, Karthik finds joy in the smiles and creative photos of passersby as they interact with his sculptures. “It’s heartwarming to see people holding the dome of the Taj Mahal sand sculpture as if they’re part of it,” he adds.

The Role of Social Media in Sand Art

Recently, social media has played a pivotal role in elevating Karthik’s visibility. He has collaborated with several YouTubers who feature him in their vlogs, which has helped spread awareness of his work far beyond the beach. “Social media has truly helped artists like me showcase our art to a broader audience,” he remarks.

As Karthik continues to sculpt, he remains committed to his craft, despite the challenges. His work is not just about creating temporary art; it is also about sharing a moment of beauty and joy with those who encounter it. For Karthik, the dawn at Marina Beach is not just a time to create but also a chance to connect with the community, one grain of sand at a time.