A snow sculpture is a carved statue or figure made out of a mound of snow. They can be simple sculptures or intricate monuments, depending on the sculptor’s skill level and patience. Snow sculpting is typically an outdoor activity due to the nature of the medium, and it is a form of artistic expression enjoyed many during the winter months.
Many people who grew up in colder climates know how much fun it is to build snowmen. Snow sculpturing elevates the art of making snowmen to a whole new level. Essentially, artists carve a snow sculpture out of a mound of snow that can range in height from 5 to 12 feet (1.5 to 3.7 meters). The snow pile must be firmly packed. Shovels, ice picks, and garden spades are among the tools used the artists to create the figure.
While a snow sculpture can be made from either artificial or natural snow, the right kind of snow is required for an artist to successfully scrape out the figure. Because it does not pack firmly enough, soft, powdery snow will not suffice. Sculptors prefer heavy, wet snow instead. If Mother Nature refuses to cooperate, the artists can alter it and turn it into good packing snow spraying it with water.
The snow sculpture does not have to be white, even if the snow is. Some sculptors prefer to use bright colors in their work. They usually do this mixing food coloring with water in a spray bottle and misting the desired colors onto the various areas of the snow sculpture. Many true snow artists, on the other hand, prefer to keep their creations natural white.
Snow sculpting is a popular pastime in both the United States and Canada. During the winter months, both locations host a number of well-known snow sculpting events, including both local and international competitions. These events are usually held in conjunction with winter festivals and are usually very well attended, attracting crowds from all over the world to not only create the sculptures, but also to enjoy and admire the outdoor art gallery.
A snow sculpture is only a temporary creation due to the nature of snow. The sculpture will, of course, melt as the weather warms and the sun shines. A light shower of water can help an artist extend the life of his or her snow sculpture. This will coat the sculpture in a thin layer of ice, preserving its shape and allowing it to withstand the sun for a little longer. Even so, the sculpture will eventually melt, and its transience may be part of its appeal.
Although many snow sculptures are quite elaborate, with intricate detail worthy of a museum, not all works of art must be of that caliber. Many people enjoy creating simple shapes and figures in their own front yards on a smaller scale. It’s a fantastic family activity that both kids and adults will enjoy.