Footprints in the Sand by Thomas Kinkade ~ Published December, 2007 - "When you see only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you..."

The parable about footprints in the sand, which reminds us that in times of personal pain God is there to carry us through, resonates for me with profound truth. My Footprints in the Sand takes us to a charming coastal town to explore the interweaving of the human and spiritual elements of our lives. The scene bustles with human activity - families strolling the pier, fishermen, even my first-ever portrayal of a surfer. The busy people are bathed in the heavenly light of sunset, and flocks of gulls, like messengers from Heaven, descend from the glorious sky.

Two pairs of footprints in the sand narrow to one, reminding us that, when our human lives are troubled, God will always be a constant guide and steady support.  - Thomas Kinkade

Key Points

1. This painting was inspired by the beautiful city of Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo County, California. Pismo Beach is the Clam Capital of the World. Pismo Beach holds the "Clam Festival" every October, complete with clam chowder competitions and clam-themed parade.

2. Thom has placed a total of eight N's in Footprints in the Sand as a symbol of his love for his wife Nanette.

3. The pier featured in "Footprints in the Sand", which replaced the original was built in 1924. The original pier was much longer than it is today and underwent significant restoration in 1983 due to storm damage and wear over time. It is 1370 feet long has has several cantilevered fishing decks, which make it popular among local anglers.

4. Footprints in the Sand features Thom's first-ever portrayal of a surfer.