Interview with Andy Daily: The Sand Sculpting Master Behind the Siesta Key Crystal Classic

Get an inside look at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic, where world-renowned sand sculptors converge to create stunning sand art along the Gulf Coast. We spoke with Andy Daily, master sculptor and event coordinator, to discuss his journey, his art, and what makes this event truly special.

Q: Andy, can you tell us a bit about your role in the Siesta Key Crystal Classic?

Andy Daily: This is my fourth year helping to run the event, and it's been an incredible journey. I work closely with the Siesta Key Chamber and Sarasota County to coordinate the event and make sure it's everything our community expects and more. We have 24 of the world's best sand artists coming here to compete, which is amazing. This is one of the biggest and best sand sculpting events around, and it's right here on Siesta Key!

Q: Has the recent hurricane impacted the event in any way?

Andy Daily: There were some concerns, but ultimately, we saw it as an opportunity. The event brings a message of hope, recovery, and resilience for the people of Sarasota. It's inspiring to see our community come together, and I think the Crystal Classic will be a powerful way to showcase that spirit.

Q: Tell us a little about your background. How did you get into sand sculpting?

Andy Daily: I actually grew up here in Sarasota after moving from Indiana at age seven. I went to the Booker Visual Performing Arts program, so art has always been a big part of my life. Years later, I reconnected with a classmate who later became my wife. She was already involved in sand sculpting, and through her, I discovered the art form. I was astonished at what artists could create from sand-it was unlike anything I'd seen. My background was in painting and tattoo art, but this took creativity to a whole new level.

Q: How did you become involved with the Siesta Key Crystal Classic?

Andy Daily: I started working on different sand sculpting events over time and eventually partnered with Brian Wigglesworth, who actually came up with the Crystal Classic concept. Through that partnership, I got introduced to more artists and opportunities, and here I am! Today, I make a living creating sand sculptures, whether it's teaching families how to build sandcastles, helping with wedding proposals, or even making sculptures in shopping malls across the U.S.

Q: Sand sculpting is such a unique art form. How long have you been doing this professionally?

Andy Daily: I've been sculpting professionally for about 13 years now. It's an incredibly rewarding field. I get to meet people from all over, work with families, and see clients come back year after year. It's amazing to build those connections and see people's reactions to the art we create.

Q: What makes the Siesta Key Crystal Classic possible? How is it funded?

Andy Daily: A lot of people wonder how we fund this event. Besides ticket sales, the event is heavily supported by sponsorships from local businesses, like Michael Saunders & Company. Their support is crucial to making this event happen each year, and we're so grateful for the local businesses that believe in our vision.

Q: Outside of the Crystal Classic, what else do you do with your company, Sand Venture?

Andy Daily: At Sand Venture, we offer sand sculpting experiences for all kinds of occasions. We'll go out to wherever our clients are staying and spend about two hours teaching them how to build a magnificent sandcastle. It's a fun, memorable experience, and I love seeing people's creativity come to life. It's always rewarding to meet new people and catch up with repeat clients who come back each year.

Visit sandventurecrew.com to learn more about private sand sculpting sessions with Andy!

Join us at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic to experience the artistry, community, and inspiration of sand sculpting! This event promises to be unforgettable.

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