The Artistry in Decorative Concrete demonstrations have been a popular attraction at World of Concrete for years. Attendees have always enjoyed seeing a diverse group of artisans apply their creativity and skills to the medium of concrete.
This year’s Artistry demos, which took place Feb. 4-8 in Las Vegas, introduced a new competitive aspect. In addition to the Attendees’ Choice balloting, the projects were judged by a panel of experts from the American Society of Concrete Contractors’ Decorative Concrete Council, with cash prizes awarded to the winner. The competition sparked some ambitious projects. Here’s a rundown.
First Place: Adrian Gascon, Creative Waterscapes
A team assembled by Adrian Gascon, Fillmore, Calif., created the winning entry, as chosen by both the attendee balloting and the ASCC expert panel. The project featured the entrance to a rocky cave, complete with a moving door. Outside the entrance sat a sculpted Buddha figure in a meditative pose, beside a leafless concrete tree. Mist from a hidden fog machine added to the atmosphere, as did the sound of flutes and percussion instruments being played by artisans and guests. The judges praised the entry for its scope, dynamism, and execution.
