Christy Atkinson and Joaquin Cortez
Joaquin Cortez, a lifelong visual artist from North Texas, with a background in traditional art mediums also studied computer animation at the Art Institute of Dallas before he found his true artistic calling during a fateful beach vacation in July 2014. There, he received a transformative sandcastle lesson from "The Amazin' Walter," instantly igniting a deep passion within him.
Cortez's commitment was unwavering, without hesitation he left his day job behind to embark on a journey of travel and intensive training. Through thousands of miles traveled from beaches and festivals creating in the sand, he captivated the public with his awe-inspiring art, evoking countless heartwarming reactions and garnering media attention. Driven by his childhood dream of inspiring others through meaningful art projects, Joaquin continues to carve his path forward, carving wood, stone, and concrete. www.joaquincortez.com
Christy enjoys making art in many different mediums. Sand is her favorite and Texas SandFest is her favorite place to compete.
Christy has sculpted sand mostly with her dad, Amazin’ Walter. They have been a winning duo for many years. This year (with Walter’s blessing) Christy is partnering with fellow sculptor Joaquin Cortez and is thrilled to partner with such a great friend.
When not carving sand, Christy earns a living as a family entertainer, balloon twister, face painter, juggler, electrician’s assistant, Sheetrock star, seamstress, and jelly maker. She also loves to crochet, play the ukulele, Star Wars, and her two cats (Cleocatra & Farrah Pawcett). Christy also loves jokes, good or bad. Please share your favorite with her!
Check out the video story on Texas Sand Fest and Port Aransas:
Filmed in 2023 at Texas Sand Fest by “Small Town, Big Story” on YouTube.
