What is the ruling on sculpting with sand, and is its art considered forbidden because it involves sand statues?

There is no objection to learning the art of sand sculpting, with the caveat that this art contains both permissible and forbidden aspects. The forbidden aspect does not preclude learning it, provided it is not used for impermissible purposes. Sculpting is only permissible for inanimate objects or for living beings whose heads are severed. It is forbidden for animate beings, and there is no distinction in this regard between different types of sculpting.