Meet Gus “Squashcarver” Smithhisler | Professional pumpkin sculptor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gus “Squashcarver” Smithhisler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gus “Squashcarver”, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Wow, people get paid to do this? Seriously, I never knew a profession like this existed, definitely not on this level. Once I had several paying customers, it really just started to fall into place.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started growing pumpkins competitively long before I started carving them, so I approach sculpting them from that perspective. I want to showcase THAT pumpkin and its uniqueness. For that reason, I always leave portions of the skin in place, rarely add anything on so it is still shaped like the pumpkin, and try to incorporate odd bumps or blemishes into the design.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
You really can’t beat the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium. Not only is it one of the top zoos in the world, but it offers so many levels of experience. From a simple day at the zoo visiting the animals, to special events, opportunities to get closer to the animals or behind the scenes, plus a water park and golf course, there is something for everyone. On top of that, the staff and volunteers love what they do and it shows.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium gave me early opportunity to showcase my abilities and has been a consistent partner for nearly two decades.

Website: Squashcarver.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/squashcarver/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/squashcarver

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squashcarver

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@squashcarver

Other: TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@squashcarver

Image Credits
Squashcarver