Written/compiled and reported by Wei Ruyu
The “2012 Nantou Laoluo River Sand Sculpture Art Festival” is currently being held on the upper beach area west of the Laoluo River beneath Lümei Bridge in Nantou City, running until February 12.
A lifelike sand sculpture of characters from *Seediq Bale*. (Photo provided by Nantou County Government Tourism Bureau)
This year’s sand sculpture festival centers around three major themes: popular films, supporting disadvantaged groups, and promoting Nantou’s industries. The exhibition features dragon-year-themed sand sculptures as well as creations inspired by hit movies such as *Seediq Bale*, *Chicken Cutlet Hero*, *Cape No. 7*, and *Monga*.
Nantou Mayor Hsu Shu-hua stated that this year, particularly popular domestic film characters have been incorporated into the sand sculptures. These were jointly created by local and international sand sculpture artists led by teachers Chang Te-hsiu and Wang Sung-kuan, reaching an international level of artistry. Everyone is welcome to gather friends and come to Nantou to enjoy the sand sculptures.
Visitors can also watch the artists’ intricate sand sculpting process. (Photo provided by Nantou County Government Tourism Bureau)
Since its opening on January 7, the 2012 Nantou Sand Sculpture Art Festival has attracted over 20,000 visitors. The Nantou City Government is also considering adding more booths. On the 9th, the artists responsible for the creations began work on new sand sculptures, planning to depict characters from *You Are the Apple of My Eye*, *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*, *Flame Dragon*, and *Electric Shaolin*. Visitors to the sand sculptures can not only view the 10 intricately completed works on display but also watch the artists create on-site. Those feeling inspired can even try their hand at sand sculpting.
The site also features charity booths run by disadvantaged groups selling goods as well as local agricultural specialties. Performances are also scheduled on weekends, allowing visitors to appreciate the many facets of Nantou’s beauty beyond the sand sculptures.