Today we’d like to introduce you to Gus Smithhisler.
Hi Gus, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I had grown giant pumpkins for several years…was at a weigh-off at Indiana State Fair. While demonstrating taking seeds out, asked the question: “They are pumpkins; why doesn’t someone carve them?”. The other growers said that I had the knife, go ahead. That started it all. The next year they hired a professional sculptor, and I discovered people actually get paid to do this, and my professional life was born. I started carving for the one fair as well as various individuals and some restaurants. Eventually, I worked into larger venues and built my reputation.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It was difficult at first, like any business, starting from scratch. I was not the typical food artist that came out of chef school; I am completely self-taught. Eventually, I built my reputation and made a name for myself and my unique style.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I use Squashcarver for two reasons: the giant pumpkins are technically squash since their stems remain soft… and closely resembles my last name (Smithhisler).
I specialize in sculpting giant pumpkins/squash, from 500 to over 2,000 pounds. Very few sculptors have the opportunity to sculpt one or two any given year, where I will sculpt more than 15 every year.
Another difference is that I like to do subtractive sculpture, so you can always tell it was a pumpkin, though I have been known to make some key additions. As a former grower, I know how much pride they have in their pumpkin, and they want people to see both my carving and their pumpkin! Also, some sculptors first move is to simply remove all the skin; I try to leave a portion of the skin somewhere for that color contrast.
In addition to the giant pumpkins, I also sculpt normal pumpkins & squashes, other fruits & vegetables, as well as cheese and butter. In the last few years, I have also produced large fiberglass sculptures for multiple clients. I am happy to do all custom sculptures based on the client’s needs, not just my artistic whims.
What are your plans for the future?
I am currently employed as an engineer for the State of Ohio. I will be able to retire in a couple years, and I look forward to being able to spend more time developing the Squashcarver brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: Squashcarver.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/squashcarver/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squashcarver
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/squashcarver
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53oRGh0xi-1tQuHZzTT4eQ
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@squashcarver
Image Credits
Squashcarver.com
