Russian tops Latvia Sand Sculpting Festival

A Russian sculptor has walked away the winner from a sand sculpting festival at a baroque palace in Latvia. The sculptors demonstrated their artistic skills during the anniversary celebration for Latvia's Jelgava Palace.

Latvia's Jelgava Palace served as inspiration for the 15 sand sculptors. The place is rather inspiring. This was its 270th anniversary.

The Baroque palace was built by architect Rastrelli, of the Hermitage at St. Petersburg. Artists from Latvia, Russia, Lithuania and the Netherlands were invited to create sculptures on the theme "Feast in the Castle".

400 tonnes of sand was trucked in just for the event. There were sculptures depicting court characters, jesters and dukes. Other recreated castles and there were even some oriental belly dancers.

The winning artist is Russian sculptor Tanya Kuznetsova. Her sculpture depicts a court jester sitting on a wheel that is emerging from the sand. She calls it the 'Wheel of History'.

Kuznetsova says sand sculpting is a particularly difficult art. Sand isn't a very reliable medium.

The artists carry out precise work. There is a certain amount of playfulness in the sand.

Sand castles may evoke childhood memories. But this festival is a "no foolin' around affair." The sand sculptures are judged by a jury of professionals.