Rake it till you make it

 Lincoln City beaches will sport some some rakishly good looks this Saturday, Aug. 15, as the Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative holds its annual Sand Art Competition and Art on the Beach event.

To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Oregon's UNESCO Cascade Head Biosphere, artists, families and beachgoers are invited to create original sand drawings inspired by the Cascade Head Biosphere Region, from its beaches and estuaries to its forests, wildlife and watersheds. Teams of up to four people will have a 20-by-20-foot section of beach to transform into family-friendly works of art, while professional sand artists and volunteers create a giant sand graphic nearby.

Drawing begins at 9 am, with teams having 90 minutes to complete their creations before judging begins at 10:30 am. Entries will be judged on creativity, originality and artistry, with prizes awarded at 11 am. The winning team will receive a prize package valued at $500, while second and third place earn $200 and $100, respectively.

A suggested $20 donation per team helps support the Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative's education, climate and community programs.

The Cascade Head Biosphere was designated by UNESCO in 1976, recognizing the region's unique combination of protected natural areas, working landscapes and local communities. The annual sand art event celebrates that connection by inviting participants to interpret the landscape through art.

No experience is necessary, and extra rakes will be available for participants of all ages and skill levels.

"Our beaches have always inspired creativity," said Duncan Berry, collaborative co-organizer. "This event brings together art, nature and community in a way that invites everyone to experience the Oregon Coast a little differently."

Saturday's event runs from 9 to 11 am on the beach in front of Chinook Winds Casino Resort, located at 1777 NW 44th Street in Lincoln City. For more information, go to cascadehead.org.