Ron MacDonald
Birthplace: Ohio
Current home base: Orlando, Florida USA
When and where did you first experience sand as an art medium?
I first met Walter McDonald in Ft. Myers in 2000 where I visited a contest, and placed third in the amateur contest with a character I drew named “Maynard.”
Who was your first mentor?
Amazin' Walter.
Is sand sculpture your career? If not, what's your day job?
My full-time job is with Walt Disney Imagineering as a Sr. Production Designer.
What other media do you sculpt or carve?
Sand is a pleasant diversion from sculpting in plaster, foam and clay for the various projects and water parks at Walt Disney World.
How many states/countries have you visited as part of sand competitions and/or exhibitions?
I have visited 19 states and countries over the past 15 years in sand competitions and sand work.
Steve Topazio
Birthplace: Rhode Island
Current home base: Tiverton, Rhode Island USA
Website/social Media: www.facebook.com/SandtasiaSandsculptors
When and where did you first experience sand as an art medium?
I started in Hampton Beach, NH.
What was the motivation for your first sand sculpture?
I started sand sculpting to break up boredom on beach. I created my first sand sculpture with a clam shell. I did not know what sand tools were at the time.
Who was your first mentor?
Greg Grady, Sr.
Is sand sculpture your career? If not, what's your day job?
I sculpt full time.
How many states/countries have you visited as part of sand competitions and/or exhibitions?
US east coast states only.
