A trio of women from Maine, known as “The Chickadees,” is gearing up to showcase their snow sculpting skills at the 29th U.S. National Snow Sculpting competition in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, in 2024. Comprising Serena Sanborne, Phoebe Sanborne, and Desiree DuBois, they are the only all-female team in a largely male-dominated sport. The competition involves 15 three-member teams from around the U.S., sculpting figures during the four-day event. The Chickadees draw inspiration from Maine’s state bird, the chickadee, focusing on depicting the bird’s curiosity, playfulness, and resilient nature.
Serena Sanborne, the team captain, works full-time as a manager of outreach and community partnerships at Waterville Creates! She has been involved in snow sculpting for a decade, previously part of “The Carvivores” team in 2019. Phoebe Sanborne, an administrative coordinator at Waterville Creates! and Serena’s sister, emphasizes the challenges of staying in practice for a seasonal activity like snow sculpting. Desiree DuBois, an artist and nail technician, prepares for the mental and physical challenges of the competition by practicing yoga.
The team’s unique challenge lies not only in the physical and mental aspects but also in dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. They recognize that Mother Nature is their fourth team member, and the success of their structure depends on cooperative weather. Despite the challenges, the women are excited about the competition and view it as a rewarding shared experience. They are also fundraising for the event, seeking support for travel expenses, cold-weather gear, and sculpting tools.
The Chickadees aim to sculpt “Artemis,” the Greek goddess representing womanhood and strength, during the nationals. The figure will include a bow and arrow, offering them ample creative scope. The team finds inspiration in the symbolism of strength and connects it to NASA’s Artemis mission to the moon in 2024. Beyond the competition, the women view their participation as a statement, embracing bravery as female artists in a male-dominated environment, facing extreme temperatures.
To track their progress and support their journey, The Chickadees have an official Facebook page with a link to their GoFundMe page for donations. The funds raised will contribute to travel expenses, essential gear, and sculpting tools. The team looks forward to the nationals, recognizing that the experience itself is inherently rewarding.
Tags: Snow sculpting, Maine, Winter art, Female team, National competition, Sculpture challenge, Creative expression, Winterfest, Artistic endeavor, Women in art, Snow carving, Maine artists, Teamwork, Outdoor art, Inspirational women, Artistry in snow
