International sculptors create sand Madonna in Varna

In honor of Varna Day, which coincides with the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, three internationally recognized sculptors created an impressive sand figure of the Virgin Mary with the Child on the beach in the "Asparuhovo" district. This unique event attracted the attention of local residents and tourists, who had the opportunity to observe in real-time how ordinary sand turns into a true work of art.

The artists behind this remarkable achievement are Remy Hoggard from the Netherlands, Paul Hoggard from the United Kingdom, and Calixto Molina from Mexico. Remy and Paul Hoggard are world-renowned masters of sand sculpture who have traveled to over 30 countries, creating their works for various amusement parks, festivals, and competitions. Interestingly, the two have chosen to settle in Bulgaria, which shows their deep connection to the country.

Remy Hoggard enthusiastically shared: "A gift for Varna and promotion of the beautiful beach... I love Bulgaria." These words emphasize not only his attachment to the country but also his desire to contribute to the promotion of beautiful Bulgarian beaches.

Paul Hoggard revealed that his passion for sand sculptures dates back to 1991 when he first started engaging in this art in India. "I started making sand sculptures in India in 1991. I've been addicted ever since. A sculpture can stay like this for 4-5 days if no one touches it.", he explained, demonstrating his deep dedication to this unique art.

For Calixto Molina, a talented sculptor from Mexico, this is his first visit to Bulgaria and Varna. Nevertheless, he has already won prestigious awards for his sand creations at festivals in Finland and Sweden. "It's my first time in Bulgaria and in Varna. I'm happy to be making sand sculptures with my friends Paul and Remy. At first, people were surprised because they hadn't seen anything like it.", Molina shared, emphasizing the uniqueness of this event for the local community.

Kristian Dimitrov, director of the "Sports" Department in Varna Municipality, expressed his admiration for the work of the three artists: "They are artists, they don't even want donations, and what they do is something beautiful and great advertising for our city." These words underscore not only the artistic value of the work but also its significance in promoting Varna as a cultural and tourist destination.

The sand sculpture of the Virgin Mary with the Child will be available for public viewing over the next few days on the seashore in the Asparuhovo district. This unique work of art not only marks an important holiday for the city but also demonstrates the international recognition of Bulgarian beaches as an ideal place for creating world-class sand sculptures.

The event will undoubtedly remain memorable for the residents and guests of Varna, highlighting the city's rich cultural program and its ability to attract international artists of the highest caliber.