Karlis Ile is a professional sculptor from Latvia, practicing his craft since 1995. He works with a diverse range of materials, including bronze, steel, granite, wood, and more recently, ice, snow, and sand. Karlis is drawn to these natural mediums because he “likes how the primeval force of these materials, combined with the magic of the moment, makes energy vibrate.”
He holds a Master’s degree in Art and Humanities from the Art Academy of Latvia, where he completed a Master’s workshop in figural sculpture.
Karlis has been honored with numerous gold medals at international festivals across the globe, including Russia, Switzerland, Finland, China, Japan, Lithuania, the USA, Canada, Germany, and his native Latvia.
Recently named America's #1 Beach, the Siesta Key Crystal Classic has become a favorite of the professional sand sculptors who have competed here.