Thousands enjoy the sights, sounds, and sands at Atlantis Rising
CHARLESTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — 10 spectacular masterpieces drew thousands to Charlestown for the Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpting Competition, now in its third year.
“It was 24,000 people the second year, and obviously many, many more this year,” South County Tourism President Louise Bishop said.
All eyes on works like the Judge’s Choice first place winner, Abe Waterman’s work digitalization fatalization.
“The concept is about us putting our fate into AI,” Waterman said. “AI still at this point has great difficulty depicting human hands and will throw an extra digit in there.”
Returning visitors were repeatedly wowed by the intricate creations and their origins.
“This is the third time I’ve been,” spectator Karen Martino said. “The creativity and just the fact that they’re from all over the world.”
Newcomers, also equally entertained, including Robert Morris who said it was a “fun-filled day, first time coming, definitely enjoyed it.”
Some participants sifted through the sand to find meaning as they casted their vote for People’s Choice.
“I would say plot nine because it shows that the message is bigger than the art, and the art is also beautiful as well,” spectator Isaiah Nyahkoon said.
Beauty that nets a pretty penny for the winners, taking home their share of more than $10,000 in prize money
“This is like an opportunity arising and handing you the key to a new chapter in your life,” sculptor Martijn Rijerse said.
Plus, a handsome return on the new $200,000 investment from the state of Rhode Island.
“We can see from what’s happening that we’re going to be able to grow it next year,” Bishop said.
The winners were announced on Sunday, with Abe Waterman, of Prince Edward Island, Canada, winning first place with his sculpture, “Digi.”
In second place, Martijn Rijerse, of Rotterdam, Netherlands, with his sculpture, “When your Opportunity Rises.”
Jonathan Bouchard, of Quebec, Canada, won third place with his sculpture, “Genesis.”
