The sand artist behind some of Hout Bay’s finest creations recently shared his skills with future dreamers. Here are some lessons we can all take from the Super Sandman!
Hout Bay, South Africa (22 June, 2023) — Professional Sandman Lindokuhle Innocent makes the kind of creations that stay with you long after you leave the beach. Honouring a childlike passion by turning it into a profession, Innocent has impressed people from all around the world who’ve encountered his sandy wonders. Better yet, he passes on his knowledge and skills to future dreamers so that this unique approach to art won’t be washed out by any tides.
Recently on one of the rarer sun-filled days in Hout Bay amid winter’s gloom, Innocent spent a day out with non-profit Intel Art students. There, budding painters and drawers got to get the knack of sand sculpting, a tougher medium than most would expect.
Innocent guided the young artists, showing them a different way of creating, an experience he express was a joy.
Although many of us may not be skilled in sand or artist, there are many life lessons we can all take from Innocent’s unique craft. Here are a few!
1. Like the Sandman, Cultivate the Art of Being Present
Sand sculptures are subject to weather, tides and for obvious reasons cannot be relocated. But, this doesn’t make these temporary works any less special; in fact it’s quite the opposite. Fleeting moments and experiences work in a similar way; the sands of time run through our fingers, and when we’re too focused on the next moment, we miss the experience. This is why the art of being present is one of the most important crafts to cultivate, because it teaches us to value what’s right in front of us—like an epic sandcastle we might never meet again.
Often in life, we’re tempted to make good moments and experiences last for as long as possible instead of appreciating them just as they are, where they are. Like trying to lift a sand sculpture to take it home, trying to force moments to live past their expiration dates can ruin their magic.
2. Follow Your Dreams Even if People Think They’re Childish
If you ever thought that building sandcastles for a living seemed like an 8-year-old’s unrealistic dream, think again. Some of the most incredible people became who they are because they followed their childhood and childlike passions. In fact, we probably wouldn’t have any artists, singers, sportspeople or Innocents if that weren’t the case!
3. Bringing Joy to Others IS a Noble Path
Innocent’s creations are nothing short of joy-evoking. Imagine strolling along the beach when suddenly a massive sand dog, pizza oven or ship crosses your path!
In an individualistic society, it’s easy to get caught up in the common notions of selfish practice that often deem ‘spreading joy’ a lesser career choice. However, joy is a currency all of its own! And, it should be respected in the same way as any other ‘big career’, if not more.
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You can keep up with the Super Sandman’s work by visiting his page.
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