About.

The Dutch artist Maxim Gazendam was born in 1981 in The Hague and studied Architecture at the Delft University of Technology. During his studies, he accidentally discovered sand sculpting. A casual afternoon of sand sculpting for adults (as a team-building workshop) unknowingly laid the foundation for his later career in this field.

While pursuing his studies at TU Delft, Maxim simultaneously developed his skills in sculpting and design. Before long, he began conducting these team-building workshops himself for corporate clients. Under his guidance, more than 10,000 participants have taken part in sand sculpting programs.

Gradually, he started receiving more international commissions for creating professional sand sculptures, which occasionally posed logistical challenges alongside his study schedule and exams at TU Delft. After graduating in 2005 with the title of Master of Science in Architecture, he decided to pursue a full-time career as a sand artist. He established his solo business under the name Puremaxim. During this period, many of his sculptures carried an architectural touch. Over time, his designs expanded to encompass a wide range of themes, yet they always retained his distinctive, clean-lined style.

In addition to creating sculptures, Maxim has developed the expertise to organize, oversee, and execute entire exhibitions and events—sometimes in collaboration with an international team of sculptors. Over the years, he has won several international awards for his work.

A classic story of a hobby that got out of hand…