Artist Mim Robson was a bit behind in her miles when she decided she’d start counting the surprising distance she found she clocked doing some of her spectacular art…
How did you got into sand art?
I saw sand artist Andres Amador’s work and it inspired me to have a go. I got some rakes, and just used the same principles I use doing henna tattoos to draw it out in the sand – but it’s harder than henna! It doesn’t hurt that I tend to walk about 3-6 miles each time in the process though!
How do you do it?
I use rakes of varying sizes, and put simply, I just rake the pattern into the sand. Anyone can have a go! I think the harder parts are managing working on a large scale, and also getting the symmetry. I use string to help me work from a central point, and I learn something new each time about how to do it better.
How you can stand to have such beautiful work be so fleeting?
Knowing it is only there until the tide comes in gives it a bit of magic I think. It’s nice to know that after I leave, a few people might come across it whilst walking their dogs on the cliff above, and it might make their day more memorable. It’s a good reminder to work and live within the present, keep letting go, and go with nature’s flow!
Does it ever go wrong?
Yes, most times. Usually a dog will run into the middle of it and start digging or scuffing up the sand, so I just have to let go and correct it as best I can! I try not to be too much of a perfectionist and just enjoy being creative, being in the fresh air and by the sea.
What’s your favourite beach-as-canvas?
So far, Hunmanby Gap, because it’s local and the beach is so big, it allows a lot of time and space to work on it, and there’s a good cliff above it to view it. When I have time I’d like to try a few in Northumberland next… it would be good to find a cove beach for it.
What's more important, the sand art or the photo of it?
I love having the photo record and sharing it with people, but I think if I couldn’t photograph it, that I would be happy enough just to do it and leave it for people to come across on their walks!
Where are your favourite places to walk?
Around where I grew up in the Yorkshire Wolds, and Derbyshire where I went to uni. I did the Derwent Valley Heritage Way and that was lovely. Birchover is also a beautiful area for walking. My favourite so far has been the Cleveland Way. I’ve walked from Scarborough to Roseberry Topping so far and the coastal section in particular is stunning.
• Have you got a novel way of getting your miles? We’d love to hear! Email us.
