This image is the cover for the book Ray Villafane's Pumpkins

Ray Villafane's Pumpkins

Some of the most ghoulish creations from “the Picasso of pumpkin carving”—as seen on Bored Panda, the Food Network, and The Martha Stewart Show (The Wall Street Journal).

Ray Villafane’s 3-D pumpkin carvings have taken the world by storm—and have set a high bar for Halloween. From his teaching days creating custom pumpkins for his students to carving for the president at the White House, Ray has used his style, talent, and creativity to raise pumpkin “carving” to an art. As you admire the pumpkins within these pages, you’ll be inspired to pick up your own tools and follow Ray’s advice and tips on creating one-of-a-kind Halloween decorations. Sculpted into haunting humans, fantastical fish, and menacing monsters, Ray’s pumpkin transformations will put a grin on your face—and give you a new appreciation for the seasonal squash. 

“The Michelangelo of pumpkin carving.”—Martha Stewart

“The world’s foremost pumpkin carver.”—USA Today

“Ray Villafane takes pumpkin carving to another level.”—The Telegraph

“Terrifyingly cool pumpkin carvings.”—Bored Panda

Ray Villafane

Ray Villafane is most well known for being a world famous “Pumpkin Artist.” He is the two-time champion of Food Network’s Challenge Show, “Outrageous Pumpkins,” as well as a contestant on season one of the Food Network’s Halloween Wars. A sculptor by day, he has been featured at comics shows around for sculpting collectibles and action figures for DC Comics, Marvel, World of Warcraft, and more. An incredibly diverse former art teacherturned professional artist, Ray has also sand-sculpted around the world. With his many years of teaching experience, Ray knows how to captivate audiences of any age with his wit and humor that accompany his dazzling displays. He lives near Phoenix, Arizona.

Gibbs Smith