Meet the Masters

World class talent. Extraordinary sand sculptures. One beach and a whole lot to compete for. 

The 2026 Siesta Key Crystal Classic brings together an incredible lineup of master sand sculptors from around the world, each bringing their own artistic style, creativity, and years of experience to Siesta Beach. But this isn’t just an exhibition. It’s a competition.

Over the course of the festival, these masters will transform mountains of sand into remarkable works of art as they compete for top honors and prizes. Their creations are evaluated by a professional panel of judges, while festivalgoers get to cast their own vote for the People’s Choice Award.

Watch the sculptures take shape, meet the artists behind the masterpieces, and see who rises to the top when the world’s best sand sculptors compete on Siesta Beach.

Get to know the masters competing in the 2026 Crystal Classic.

Dmitrii Klimenko

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In 2004, I graduated from the Saint Petersburg Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design with a Master’s degree from the Department of Monumental and Decorative Sculpture. That same year, I discovered sand as a sculptural medium—and I’ve been carving ever since.

Now, after nearly two decades of participating in international sand sculpture festivals and competitions, I continue to learn, explore, and push the boundaries of this inspiring and ever-evolving art form.

International Participation

I’ve had the honor of taking part in major sand sculpture festivals and championships around the world, including:
Japan, Russia, Canada, USA, Kuwait, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Poland, and Latvia.

Awards

  • 2016 – Rorschach, Switzerland: 1st Place, International Contest of Sand Sculptures, Bodensee
  • 2016 – Florida, USA: 2nd Place, Sanding Ovations International Sand Sculpting Competition, Treasure Island
  • 2017 – Parksville, Canada: 1st Place (team with David Ducharme), International Contest of Sand Sculptures
  • 2018 – Virginia, USA: 1st Place (team with Andrius Petkus), Neptune Festival International Sand Sculpting Championship
  • 2019 – Parksville, Canada: 2nd Place and Sculptors’ Choice (team with Sue McGrew), International Contest of Sand Sculptures

Working with sand offers me a wonderful opportunity to grow as an artist, and I don’t ever want to stop. In addition to sand, I also enjoy sculpting in ice, snow, bronze, wood, and even pumpkins—each medium offering its own set of challenges and creative possibilities.

Dmitrii Klimenko Work

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