Jupiter Farms Artist Wins Gold in Ice Sculpting at Cultural Olympics

Ben Rand's ice creations prove Florida's heat can't stop a master craftsman.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Ben Rand, an ice sculptor from Jupiter Farms, Florida, has won a gold medal in ice sculpting at the Cultural Olympics in Milan. Rand, who operates his ice sculpting business out of Jupiter Farms, has proven that Florida's warm climate is no match for his chilling masterpieces.

Why it matters

Ice sculpting is a niche art form, and Rand's gold medal win at the prestigious Cultural Olympics showcases the talent and creativity that can come out of Florida, a state not typically associated with winter sports and activities.

The details

Rand, who has been ice sculpting for over a decade, created a stunning piece that wowed the judges at the Cultural Olympics in Milan. His work highlighted his technical skills and artistic vision, despite the challenges of working with ice in a warm climate like Florida.

  • Ben Rand won the gold medal in ice sculpting at the 2026 Cultural Olympics in Milan.

The players

Ben Rand

A Florida-based ice sculptor who operates his business out of Jupiter Farms.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of people think it's incredibly ironic that I make ice sculptures in Florida.”

— Ben Rand (WPTV)

What’s next

Rand plans to continue honing his ice sculpting skills and hopes to defend his gold medal at the next Cultural Olympics.

The takeaway

Rand's gold medal win at the Cultural Olympics demonstrates that artistic talent and creativity can thrive in unexpected places, even in the warmth of Florida's climate.