The Shadow Farm

Ready to paint

2012-02-12T07:45:00.003-06:00

Here's a batch of creepers almost ready to paint. At this point they still look pretty rough, but will soon be showing their unique personalities. 2012 is starting to look like a busy year here at the Shadow Farm with plans to attend several conventions and art shows. Eyeing up the calendar, I'm going to have to get the creative gears moving in order to keep up.

Agony

2012-02-05T09:29:00.004-06:00

There are needles in my eyes
and a large rusty knife pierces my forehead.
It hurts to breathe.
The pain is impossible
and yet here it is again.

Just leave me alone to die
my slow and painful death.

The Inigmatic Professor Phynn

2012-02-04T07:02:00.002-06:00

Explorer. Cartographer. Scientist. Professor Phynn set out in the early 1920's to explore uncharted regions. It is unclear where his adventures took him or what his goal was. It is assumed he traveled north.

Somewhere cold.

Somewhere wet.

Foetus Specimens

2012-01-22T19:41:00.002-06:00

A fun little project I worked on today start to finish. The specimens are hand sculpted in DAS Air dry clay and painted with acrylics. I have several more in the works. The general reaction I have been getting from these is "Ewwww"

Perfect.

My Pal Elizabeth White

2012-01-15T09:47:00.004-06:00

I found this photograph at a flea market. Torn from the pages of someone's album, the inscription reads "My Little Pal, Elizabeth White, Age 1 1/2 years old"

I wonder if the photographer had any clue what a little demon Elizabeth White was. This picture, quite frankly, freaks the hell out of me. The starkness of the black and white are understood for the time, but there is something unsettling about the unkempt yard, the framing of the subject between the long shadows, and the demonic gaze of Elizabeth White.

What is wrong with Elizabeth's left leg? Why does it seem so small compared to her right leg?

This photograph has not been retouched. What would explain the eye-like dark splotches on the tree trunk over little Elizabeth's shoulder?

---could that be an open grave being dug by the house in the background?

Happy New Year, Dammit

2012-01-01T10:10:00.002-06:00

This is a guy I made as a Christmas present for my Father-In-Law. I haven't been posting much lately, but as January settles in I hope to change that. Here's to a fantastic 2012!

Saucy Little Chick

2011-12-17T11:00:00.003-06:00

Looks like I can add "Boudoir Photographer" to my resume. This temptress is now available on Etsy.

The Silence

2011-12-13T16:55:00.004-06:00

There was no logic that could explain the sequence of events that had brought him to park along the side of this desolate road. The snow fell steadily as he listened to his engine tick and pop, the cold night air quickly cooling the hot metal. His headlights illuminated cones of snow over the icy corn field. The voices had brought him here. He knew it but could not explain it. The voices. What were they anyway? He lay his head back and closed his eyes, breathing slowly in an effort to tap into the white noise that had guided him over the past few months. The journey had been long and confusing, but tonight all would be revealed if he could only concentrate.

In the distance, he could hear the flat, modulating whine of tires as countless travelers drove down the interstate highway. The noise was soothing and hypnotic. He allowed himself a small smirk as he thought of the drivers speeding by his spot, oblivious to the wonderful truth he was about to discover. The wind whispered its secrets to the dead corn, blowing the new snow in ghostly waves over the furrows, valleys and scrub left behind from the year's harvest. The insulating blanket of white muffled the night sounds, but he knew this is where his focus must lie.

He listened. Below the wind he heard the soft accumulation of snow on his wet windshield. Miniature avalanches slid across his view as they melted against the car's quickly dissipating internal heat. He listened. He heard his breathing, slow and deep and deliberate. He listened. He heard his own heartbeat pulsing in his ears.

He listened. Quieter than the snowflakes and his own heartache he began to hear what had brought him here. He began to hear the voices.

Shadow Farm Contest: and the winner is....

2011-12-10T09:33:00.004-06:00

Thanks to the few followers who entered my off-season contest! Four of you took the time to go on my little trivia hunt, and since the number of entries is so few I would feel bad about choosing just one winner....so here's how it is going to work:

Everybody wins!

Each of the entrants will receive an email in order of their entry. You will then get to choose your prize from the above picture. The next person will get to choose from the remaining items and so on.
I will post the final results as soon as the prizes have been divvied up.
Thanks so much for following and for taking the time to dig thru my archives! I really appreciate it!

A pair of 'Steins

2011-12-07T05:54:00.002-06:00

Two versions of the Frankenstein Monster mugging for the camera.

Thug

2011-12-06T19:14:00.005-06:00

Brute, Goon, Gorilla, Tough.

It seems "the Monster" may have associations with the mafia.

A Shadow Farm contest

2011-12-01T16:58:00.006-06:00

Presenting the Shadow Farm trivia hunt! All you need to enter is right here on this blog. Use the italicized words to search my Tags for the answers.

Two steps to enter:

send me an email with the answers to the following six questions. theshadowfarm-at-gmail-dot-com
comment on this blog post to let me ( and everyone else) know you have entered (don't answer the questions here!!!)

The winner will be chosen at random from all entrants who correctly answer the six questions, and will receive the 2 1/2 inch tall hand sculpted pumpkin shown above plus a variety of spooky stocking stuffers.

Contest ends December 9th at midnight...now get searching!

What medium did YOUNG ARTIST Fox G use to sculpt a reaper?
Which of my PHOBIAS keep me on guard while walking on the sidewalk?
What CHARACTER of mine had a friend for dinner?
Which ANIMATED character is the groundskeeper of my cemetery?
What childhood characters are pictured beheaded on the Parade Float (of Death) (December 2009)?
What is the name of the female reaper I made with LATEX and MONSTER MUD?

Three Monks

2011-11-24T13:51:00.001-06:00

Despair

2011-11-24T11:20:00.005-06:00

My head hurts.

The world is dark and cold.

Wallowing in an invisible sack of self loathing
one can only wonder why
the world seems so
oblivious to my pain.

What is the point in it all anyway?

Professor Phynn, WIP conitnued

2011-11-20T09:28:00.006-06:00

Phynn wormed his way onto the bench this weekend for some long awaited tweaking. I have added some years to his robe, added a second scroll, and worked out placement of the belt that will eventually carry a variety of instruments for his scientific explorations. Still a bunch to do, but I feel pretty good about the base and direction he is going.

I need to now start thinking of brass telescopes, compasses, and indescribable steam-punk-ish accoutrement's.

His would-be sidekick has been banished to "The Shelf". I was getting absolutely no cooperation out of the guy and felt it would be better to set him aside rather than continue the frustration of seeing him mock me from prime bench-top space.
Take that, Bernoulli! ( yes, the unfinished thing has a name already)

Captain Lobotomy

2011-11-19T08:35:00.002-06:00

Fronkensteen

2011-11-18T09:19:00.004-06:00

Sometimes the clay knows best. I started this piece a week ago with no direction or premise. It was just a lump of clay over a foil armature. As I do many times, I pushed and pulled at the clay until a character began to form. I had no idea I was about to visit the realms of one of the most iconic movie monsters ever, but what the heck, right? So anyway, I give to you my interpretation of The Frankenstein Monster.( with a definite steampunk vibe)

Oh wait....it is pronounced Fronkensteen!

Thatcher

2011-11-16T10:15:00.007-06:00

Thatcher was once a strong and agile young man. He had a thriving business mending roofs for the townsfolk, farmers, and the dwellers of the woods. One day while he traveled deep into the forest, he happened across the small untidy hut of a feeble old lady. She beckoned to him.

"Thatcher,' she called out as he approached, "There is a hole in my roof. I have no money to pay, but can grant you a wish if you will fix my leaky roof."

Thatcher was familiar with bartering, but was woefully unaware of the underhanded dealings of the crazy old "bottle lady". He kindheartedly agreed, knowing he would collect no payment this day, and started the repairs. Upon completion of the task, the old hag asked Thatcher what his wish was. Jokingly, he chuckled that he wished that hers was the last rooftop he ever saw.

As Thatcher lay down for the night, huddled under his cart, he thought of the old lady and his wish. When he woke the next morning, he found his wish had been granted. Thatcher was blind, and as requested, would never see another rooftop.

Props of the Past : Dr. Spew the Puking prop

2011-11-05T12:14:00.003-05:00

I was browsing through some old pix and came across this puking prop I made sometime around 2007. This project was one that I was coerced into making. My Uncle Dan dropped the barrel off and in no uncertain terms stated that I needed to make a puking guy...so I did, leaving Dan to figure out how to automate the puking process so the good doctor didn't hurt himself spewing forth a solid stream all night long. The mechanism Dan developed was actually quite ingenious. It utilized a float valve and a regulated water return to make the animation 100% autonomous. When Dr. Spew first chucks, he fills a reservoir that, when full, trips the float valve to turn the sump pump off. The reservoir slowly drains until the float turns the pump back on, and the cycle is repeated....hours of vomitous entertainment ensue. The massive volume you see in these pictures eventually was fine-tuned to a controlled and contained upchuck.

Dr. Spew is still operational to this day, and has been everything from a mad scientist to an unfortunate potion master/ wizard. (and even an impromptu political protest....but that's another story)

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:23:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone has had a terrific Halloween filled with Trick or Treats, scary movies, cool night air and warm apple cider. Thoughts now turn to packing away the ghouls and nightmares to make way for new and equally strange and dark projects.

There is beauty in the bizarre and warmth in the weird.

Thank you all for sharing this strangeness with me.

Dave

The Shadow Farm goes public!

2011-10-30T09:16:00.004-05:00

The Shadow Farm attended the 65th Annual Irvington Halloween Festival yesterday. It was a great event to mark my 'coming out'...my first major event to set up as a shop in person. I was completely blown away by the organization and attendance of this event. I suppose after 65 years you tend to get things right...and The Irvington Halloween Festival certainly did! Yesterday's weather was near perfect for a late October outdoor event, and record breaking crowds came out to partake in the festivities.

Today is the Day...

2011-10-24T08:14:00.002-05:00

Finally time to set up the yard display. Ephram Vessell has found himself forlorn, waiting an unusually deep sentence into "THE month". This year's display will be significantly scaled back in comparison to years past, but I am hoping to capture the spirit of the season nonetheless.

Let the games begin....

Assassin Bug

2011-10-23T18:40:00.002-05:00

My son found this creepy bug in the yard today. It is known as as Assassin Bug (or Wheel bug), and is apparently a beneficial insect feeding on other insects.

Looks like something that would make a great B movie, huh?

Early Trick or Treat

2011-10-18T18:42:00.004-05:00

Just a few of the THOUSANDS that attended the 2011 Fall Campout at Cowan Lake State Park in Southern Ohio

A break before the madness...

2011-10-13T13:10:00.004-05:00

I am spending a week out camping before the mad rush to Halloween. There is a huge flock of vultures that have been roosting near our campsite...very cool to watch these masters of flight throughout the day.

Idjit

2011-10-03T12:54:00.005-05:00

Idjit is a very simple-minded fellow. He is always overjoyed when the kids come to visit his patch. He leaps and bounds thru the vines to greet them. Usually the children wet themselves and flee in fear for their lives. However, once in a while a poor soul will trip in panic, allowing Idjit to catch up and administer one of his life-ending hugs.

Poor, well-intentioned Idjit. He just doesn't know his own strength.

Now available to purchase on Etsy.

Pissant

2011-10-01T17:07:00.004-05:00

There is a general sense of unrest in the patch this year. Having survived an extraordinarily hot summer, the pumpkins have grown weary of the annual slaughter of their kind. Some of the pumpkins have formed a rebellion against the coming harvest. Pissant has not joined.
He is just too disagreeable to join any movement no matter how noble the cause and how much the beliefs of the rebellion mirror his own. He would rather stand alone, guarding his little section of the pumpkin patch, ever ready to give a hardy tongue-lashing to any child unlucky enough to come within earshot...and good hard thwack with his craggy stick if they venture within striking distance. The neighborhood cats won't go near him. The woodchucks steer clear. Even the raccoons ( the most fearless of the night creatures) stay away from Pissant. So the small but mighty Pissant stands alone, always annoyed, while the cold of October bears down on us all.

Pissant is now for sale on Etsy!

Witches!

2011-09-30T19:12:00.002-05:00

Witch. Hag. Crone. Biddy.
Sorceress. Enchantress. Siren.

Monster Art Show at Paper Crane Gallery

2011-09-29T09:36:00.001-05:00

I have been accepted to show a couple of pieces in the Monster Art Show at the Paper Crane Gallery in Bloomington, Indiana! This juried show is right up my alley with a theme of monsters, both real and imagined. The opening reception is October 7th, and the show runs thru the end of the month. Come on out and help celebrate the one year anniversary of Paper Crane.

Owls!

2011-09-27T19:47:00.002-05:00

The Owl invasion has begun on The Shadow Farm. Here's the first 3 scouts checking out their surroundings and generally kicking back, waiting for more of their parliament to arrive.

Professor Phynn WIP

2011-09-24T07:54:00.003-05:00

I have put a few teasers out about this new piece in the last few posts. I feel it is time to introduce Professor Phynn properly. ( if not briefly) Professor Phynn is the first of a pair of intrepid explorers that I have in the works. Armed with charts, maps, and a heavy load of scientific instruments, Professor Phynn is off in uncharted territory to explore the secrets beyond the edges of the map. At this point, I am satisfied with the basic elements of the sculpt...pose, , emotion, and concept. The skin tone has turned out really well, although I must say the above picture does not do justice to the depth and variation of color. The details have yet to be finalized, and will make or break this piece in their execution. I have no time frame in mind for completion of this project. I prefer to work as inspiration ebbs and flows, riding the tides of strangeness wherever they may take my imagination.

What did you do on Misgivings Day?

2011-09-18T18:49:00.001-05:00

....Or better yet, what IS Misgivings Day? Well, if you are familiar with Ghoul Friday, I am sure you are aware she is a Halloween enthusiast, blogger, author, and artist. Now you can add Holiday Creator to her list of accomplishments. You can read her post on this new holiday HERE. Basically it is the 7th Sunday before Halloween, and the unofficial, official start of the Halloween season...so go ahead and decorate that yard..it's OK, now.
So in the spirit of Misgivings, I spent the weekend holed up in my shop working on pieces that were in various sages of completion, starting new projects, and generally wrapping myself in a creative coccoon for a 48 hour stretch. Here's the fruits of my labor.
So what did you do with Misgivings Day?

New Creeps on Etsy

2011-09-17T18:03:00.004-05:00

I just added some new creepy characters to my Etsy shop. Check them out while they are still there!

Character thoughts

2011-09-14T12:19:00.003-05:00

Here's some disjointed thoughts bouncing around my skull. I have two new characters in mind that will be related in a way. They have started as two completely different pieces, and have gestated on the bench just long enough that I am starting to see an association between them.

Character 1: Professor Phynn. large round head, very wideset round dark eyes. tentacle-like appendages in the mouth area. Cthuhu-esque, (without the menace of the mighty one.) Explorer. shoulders draped in a well-worn cloak, holding gnarled walking stick. scientific instruments attached to a harness or leather "bandolier" . Wise. Soft steampunk influence. maps and charts in a scroll.

Character 2: yet unnamed. Taller than prof phynn, bird-like head resembling plague doctor. More of a steampunk influence on this one...bio-mechanical elements. Implanted goggles in a bone cranium. brass or copper plated beak. leathery wings. Also an explorer(possibly a chemist), with accoutrements of the trade. Large scarf around neck, extends over shoulders as a cape of heavily draped fabric.

It can only get stranger from here...

2011-09-13T16:23:00.002-05:00

I just finished up a batch of small ghouls, and a few other projects now loom on the horizon.

..strange projects indeed.

Free Shipping at my Etsy store!

2011-09-12T08:47:00.002-05:00

Use code FREECREEPY on all orders this week from my Etsy store to score FREE SHIPPING!

2 new guys

2011-09-06T19:19:00.001-05:00

Just finished these two guys... not much more to say than that.

The Harvest Rebellion

2011-09-04T07:37:00.004-05:00

WARNING!
I urge you to read this and take heed. THE HARVEST REBELLION IS HERE! Spread the word before it is too late!

The pumpkins have had enough of the senseless slaughter that occurs every year in the humble fields across the world. Their homes are invaded and ransacked by humans with machetes, hatchets, and knives. Their kinsfolk are taken by the millions and mutilated in the name of 'holiday tradition'.

I have it on good authority that a rebellion force has assembled to guard the patch. They will do everything in their power to keep the invading humans at bay and put an end to the massacre once and for all.

You have been warned.

New Logo for The Shadow Farm ala King Unicorn

2011-09-02T19:05:00.004-05:00

Thanks to the terrific talent of fellow dark mind King Unicorn, I have a new logo design for The Shadow Farm. I had the basics of the design in my mind from the beginning, but must say it turned out much better than I had envisioned. The original piece used as inspiration was my Flagbearer creep. I have always loved the dark and moody feel he exudes, and felt it would make a great piece to help develop an instant recognition of my work.

Thanks you so much King Unicorn. I couldn't be happier with the outcome!

New witch completed

2011-08-15T15:41:00.003-05:00

I just finished this witch as a custom order for one of my past Etsy customers. I do not mind saying this gal gave me quite a bit of trouble....there was something elusive about her facial expression early in the sculpt that drove me nuts. Early on, the expression was blank...no character or emotion displayed whatsoever. The unfinished piece sat on my bench for several weeks, staring up like a dead fish, mocking my lack of creative inspiration. I have learned that when a piece doesn't feel right it is best to put it away until new thoughts emerge. Such was the case with this witch....last week a new approach on the facial features came to me, inspired by the twin witches I posted last week. I raised the cheekbones, dropped the brow, defined some deep scowling lines in tightly pursed lips and all of a sudden she had an attitude. After I overcame that hurdle, the rest of the sculpt was relatively easy.

Creatures on the bench!

2011-08-15T09:14:00.003-05:00

There has been a lot of activity in my shop lately in preparation for upcoming shows. This batch of creatures is merely the tip of the iceberg for the planned hoard I intend to unleash on the world over the next few months.
For those of you keeping track, this batch represents my first attempt at a ghost, a vampiric amphibian, and a virginal duck. I do not intend to list these pieces on etsy. If by chance you see something here that you just have to possess, contact me at theshadowfarm@gmail.com and I could be swayed to release the creature ahead of time.

The Sisters of the Waning Moon

2011-08-09T19:34:00.007-05:00

Deep in the woods on the last nights before the moon goes dark, a chanting can be heard beneath the whispering wind and the drone of crickets. Some say it is merely the incessant call of the katydids rasping away in the night. But I know different. I have heard the twisted voices of a pair of twin witches known as The Sisters of the Waning Moon. Few have actually seen the old hags as they circle the abandoned well, chanting an ancient spell into the echoing abyss. Few would want to recount the memories of an encounter with evil divided. I have seen the Sisters but cannot allow myself to describe them for fear of losing my already shattered mind.

Lyle Skullsworth

2011-08-07T19:03:00.005-05:00

The newest piece to come off the bench. This week I will get production in full gear for the upcoming season. From this point out, I will be holding back many of the pieces I show here on the blog in preparation for the 65th annual Irvington Halloween Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. If you will be in the area on October 29th, mark you calendar and come see The Shadow Farm in person!

Pearl

2011-07-31T20:43:00.002-05:00

Specimen Number AUK177Q

2011-07-24T12:11:00.003-05:00

The specimen was discovered in an old steamer trunk tucked away in the basement of an abandoned lecture hall. Along with the small crate containing Specimen AUK177Q was a broken theodolite and a small banded suitcase with an array of strange brass instruments. The only identification was on a small card inside the case identifying Expedition BXT1926. While it can be assumed the expedition date was in 1926 there is no indication as to who funded the exploration or where the specimen was taken.

A visual inspection of the remains has produced the following facts:

Specimen contains remains of unknown species.
Creature has been mummified and conforms to no known physical norms.
Creature has two forelimbs and a prehensile tail.
Length would be approximately 16 inches from tip of tail to cranium.

Further analysis must be performed, including complete physical autopsy and historical investigation of the expedition.

Halloween Blues

2011-07-16T14:18:00.002-05:00

Something is wrong.

Desperately wrong.

I can't believe it is already the middle of July and the urge to create new Halloween props hasn't hit me yet. Normally by this point I would have a garage full of props in the works and the back yard would look like mid-winter from all the styrofoam scraps. I would have a head full of projects lined up waiting to be turned into reality. Plans would be already set in motion for a haunt of some sort.

This year...nothing.

what is wrong with me?

Poe revisited

2011-07-09T16:04:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite characters that I have made was Poe. There was something magical about this creature. All the creative elements came together at once to produce what I feel was one of my best pieces. The sculpt, the paint job, the sad, dejected pose and the backstory. I have toyed with the idea of attempting to recreate poor Poe several times but have been intimidated to try. Many of my methods are so unique that to duplicate a piece like Poe seems almost impossible. I have, however, taken the task on...not to produce a direct duplicate but to make a similar character. One with the same type of aura and essence that has made Poe one of my favorites.
Wish me luck.

The Putrescent Uncle Crebb

2011-07-07T19:10:00.005-05:00

He holds a silent vigil in the dank shadows of the darkest corners of my mind. Fretfully pacing, he lights his way with the flicker of a single candle stub. A sloshing scraping sound draws my attention away from the living. The smell of rotting fish and wet leaves fills my mind and burns my eyes. The putrescent Uncle Crebb has returned to fester away what remains of my sanity.

Gargoyles of the City Museum

2011-07-05T17:04:00.003-05:00

Photos of Gargoyles and other architectural adornments in the collection of The City Museum, St. Louis Mo.

Indy Haunt Fest 2011

2011-06-30T18:43:00.007-05:00

Last weekend I attended Indy Haunt Fest. It was a very fun event consisting of two full days of prop making, demonstrations, and just hanging out with some very cool people. Make-n-Takes included tombstone carving, latex and cotton corpsing, intro to greatstuff, pressure mats triggers, and mechanical headpoppers. If you are unfamiliar with these terms it wouldn't do any good to explain.
Haunters will understand.

I took The Shadow Farm shop on the road for the first time ever. During the two days, I demonstrated a few sculpting techniques, producing a couple of heads for future creeps.

Show and tell brought out the haunter's wild side, conjuring up all manner of demented and evil beast.
.

New Ghouls!

2011-06-23T16:19:00.005-05:00

While packing for Indy Haunt Fest, I realized I hadn't taken a single picture of my newest batch of ghouls. So to correct that near oversight, here they are all at once!

Witchlette video!

2011-06-19T10:21:00.002-05:00

Click the picture to view video of Witchlette in action

Witchlette Completed

2011-06-18T20:25:00.006-05:00

Witchlette is now finished! Her costume features authentic vintage fabrics, buttons, and jewery ( as well as a single raccoon tooth) Four 1950's era bottles provide a visual accent to the base of the cauldron. I will post video as soon as I can work thru an error with Blogger. Completed size is 19 inches tall...the perfect size for a one of a kind eye-catching Halloween Display.

Indy Haunt Fest June 25 and 26

2011-06-18T14:43:00.003-05:00

Next weekend is the 2nd annual Indy Hauntfest In Indianapolis, Indiana! I will be attending as a vendor with all my creepy Shadow Farm creations as well as a few essential haunter items I have put together specifically for the event. I will also be hosting a make n take, where participants will get to make the motorized mechanism for an Animated Tombstone headpopper ...the perfect prop to add a bit of creepy motion to your Halloween yard display and a fantastic intro to Halloween animation.
Other make-n-take projects will include Lighted Witch Jars, tombstone carving, and an open forum show and tell. Demos, speakers and events top off this fun weekend.
Mark your calendars for next Saturday and Sunday and come have a great spooky time with other haunters!

Moonrise over The Shadow Farm

2011-06-14T21:24:00.002-05:00

Witchlette : testing the costume

2011-06-14T14:24:00.006-05:00

This is the first test fitting of the fabrics I have chosen for the Witchlette. Most are vintage fabrics that I have collected from various sources throughout the years. I fell that this is a good mix of colors and textures to give the old hag a real-world appearance. At this stage I like to let everything sink in for a few days, observe her in different lighting and take note of any changes or additions that need to take place before attaching her wardrobe permanently.
For instance, as much as I would like to press onward, the painting on the cauldron needs to be finished before any fabrics are applied. The plastic hands stand out as a beacon of laziness at this point, prompting me to push my comfort zone a bit to make them blend in with the rest of the piece. The forearms need some work as well since the fresh clean burlap glows like a beacon. Accessories, knickknacks and other bits and bobs will be the final touch to give her an authentic presence.
Overall I am pleased with the way this is turning out.

Recap of Great Lakes Fright Fest

2011-06-11T17:22:00.004-05:00

It has been a week since I traveled to Totem Pole Park to experience Great lakes Fright Fest. If you are familiar with the fermous Ghoul Friday, you have already seen and read about the event. I must say, her pix turned out much better than mine.I do have a few worth sharing, though.

Witchlette: The eyes

2011-06-08T19:11:00.004-05:00

Her eyes told of a soulless determination. The task at hand was a daunting one indeed and nothing would stand in her way.

Progress has been made. Between events at Great Lakes Fright Fest, I worked on painting the skin tone of the Witchlette. Normally I have a clear idea of how I want a skin tone to look, but Witchlette was a puzzle to me. I knew I didn't want a stereotypical green skin, but felt that leanings toward green would be appropriate. I fumbled along, adding bits of color here, a wash or two there until I reached a point of utter confusion. I told Ghoul Friday, my camping companion at the event, that the old gal had reached a point where she was either almost done or almost ruined. Upon arriving home, the final stages of painting slowly came into focus, leaving Witchlette with a stony complexion to match her fixed gaze.

The final pieces of the puzzle will be her hair, costume, and accessories.

Getting close now. She has begun to whisper her wicked mumblings in my ear, telling me how to bring her to life.

Almost a stowaway...

2011-06-06T21:25:00.003-05:00

This little beastie just about made it into my camper riding on a Halloween prop while I was packing up to leave from Great Lakes Fright Fest last Sunday. It is a beautiful spider, but I must say it made my skin crawl to think where it might have ended up. Does anyone know what kind of spider this is?

Witchlette: Dressing begins

2011-05-26T19:56:00.004-05:00

Ok, not really much to look at here other than I have added plastic bottle over top of the mech to keep everything nice and secure inside. I then covered the body in burlap that has been soaked in Sculpt or Coat. The resulting body is lightweight and fairly stiff. I have also mounted the cauldron to the top of the books and the motor inside the cauldron. At this point I gave the the dual motors a 24 hour test run...they worked flawlessly with absolutely no heat build up.
I decided to go with a dual voltage desktop power supply with 5vDC going to the head motor and 12vDC going to the cauldron motor. This keeps the two movements out of sync with each other adding to a lifelike illusion.

I have a feeling the outfit on this nasty little gal is going to be a whole bunch of fun. I will be staying away from traditional black cloak and hat and stay in earthy fabrics with alot of texture. I am not looking forward to making a pair of small hands though, and might wuss out and use a pair of plastic skeleton hands.

Witchlette progress: Arms

2011-05-21T10:28:00.003-05:00

Witchlette's arms have been installed and tested. I added a bracket to the main front rod to support the shoulders, providing a secure foundation for the jointed arms. Trial and error with the arm lengths resulted in a smooth natural movement. As stated before, I am designing this mech to be as maintenance free as possible so that the eventual owner can enjoy her for years to come.
A loose fitting at the wrists will give just enough play at the natural maple stirring stick to give the entire arm assembly a smooth, natural stirring motion.

Witchlette continued: The mech

2011-05-16T20:32:00.006-05:00

The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to add some head movement to the Witchlette. I have made head turning mechs before, but always on a larger scale where the overall size wasn't an issue. This project has several design demands that I have not encountered before.

The mech must be small enough to fit inside the body.
The mech must be reliable. In the past, I have made props for myself, and troubleshooting always seems to be par for the course. This mech must work flawlessly and provide trouble free operation.

This is my first successful configuration that will meet the necessary requirements. After the pictures were taken, I have tweaked a few dimensions to make the mechanism even more compact than pictured. The design will allow me to easily adjust the overall height and neck-to-torso dimensions, but for now proof of concept has been achieved.

Witchlette

2011-05-15T20:48:00.006-05:00

Here's the start of my next animated, motorized figure. This one is already taking on a life of her own and developing a creepy personality. Like Luther, she will be a motorized prop stirring a small cauldron. I may try to coax a little more movement into her, but haven't quite figured out how to hide the mechanism I have been thinking about in such a small space. I also need to make sure to leave access to any inner workings for potential troubleshooting and maintenance. It is also possible that the stirring motion will be enough. Decisions, decisions....

Little brown bat

2011-05-15T20:13:00.005-05:00

Pix of a bat we found in my son's school. After some observation, it was turned loose in our backyard to help thin out the mosquito population.

Rusty Lanterns

2011-05-11T15:47:00.000-05:00

What haunt couldn't use a rusted out, flickering lantern to add to the creepy atmosphere? These lanterns are painted and textured to appear very old and rusty. The original 'pristine' lantern shown on the box below comes with a very shiny black finish and a stark white LED light. I have removed the stock LEDs and replaced them with a good quality flickering tealight candle. A great feature of the lantern is that it has a nice dimmer switch and operates off 2 AA batteries. By wiring the tealight directly to the switch, I can take advantage of variable electrical inputs which exaggerate the flickering effect from full flicker to a dim sputtering that looks like the lantern is about to go out.

Cauldron Stirring Guy completed

2011-05-07T15:21:00.004-05:00

It has been a productive day here at the Farm. My first Cauldron Stirring prop of the year is now complete. At the suggestion of a good friend, I added a stiff collar which led to the addition of a shirt and tie. Very dapper, don't you think? According to Mrs. Dave the Dead, his name is Luther. ( I'm not sold on the name, but Luther hasn't suggested any other options) Video of Luther in action can be seen here.

Another project ticked off my list can be seen in the background...a set of small shelves that I will use to display my wares at upcoming shows. The shelves are made from reclaimed cedar fence planks, and make a perfect backdrop for the creepy little characters that inhabit The Shadow Farm.

Next on the agenda are more small ghouls, some lanterns that I am converting to use LED tealight candles, and at least two more Cauldron Stirring props.

Stirring Cauldon Sculpt In progress

2011-05-04T09:16:00.004-05:00

This guy is the start of a series of Cauldron Stirring figures I have planned for this year. I have some finish work yet to do, but have proven that he is mechanically sound by running him off and on for hours at a time over the last week or so. The sculpt is mostly paper mache with paperclay as a topcoat to give the final texture. The figure has a small electric motor mounted inside the cauldron that revolves slowly, his jointed arms following the stirring stick. Overall size is approx 21 inches. Finishing touches will include some crazy hair, a large stiff collar, and some paint and texturing on the cauldron. When completed, this figure will be available to purchase on Etsy or in person at Great Lakes Fright Fest.

The Ghoul Army- new recruits!

2011-04-28T18:34:00.004-05:00

I've been taking advantage of the wet weather lately to further expand my growing army of ghouls. sadly, I now have to wait for my order of Sculpt or Coat to arrive before I can continue my ever expanding Army of Ghouls. If you are unfamiliar with Sculpt or Coat, check it out! It is an excellent product with a huge variety of uses...my Ghoul production is at a standstill without it.

I originally planned this series to sell specifically at Indy Haunt Fest, but have just this week committed to joining the fun at Great Lakes Fright Fest June 3, 4, 5th. I am working like crazy to make sure I can take a battalion to each event.

more Ghouls

2011-04-19T20:40:00.003-05:00

More Ghouls for Indy Haunt Fest.

Ghouls

2011-04-16T20:05:00.005-05:00

This is the first glimpse at my newest series of ghouls that I will be selling at Indy Haunt Fest . These little creeps feature hand sculpted paperclay heads and fabric mache bodies over a compacted foil armature. They range between 2 1/2 inches to 5 inches tall and seem to ooze with the characteristic Shadow Farm style.

Fritz II just finished

2011-04-12T16:53:00.002-05:00

I just finished a second version of my Fritz character as a special request from an Etsy buyer. It was fun to explore this outrageous guy for a second time. Just before I glued his hat in position I had to snap this picture...He reminds me of someone but I just can't place who...any thoughts?

And now for something odd...

2011-04-09T18:41:00.002-05:00

I found an old book at the thrift store and had to purchase it because of this picture.

The crying hedgehogs made me laugh.

Derelict

2011-04-03T13:09:00.001-05:00

The last of their kind

2011-03-29T20:16:00.003-05:00

The last of the Tar Phoenix creatures is now complete. I feel that I can now let the idea lay dormant in the ashes until inspiration kindles the flame once more.

This lone phoenix took on the character of a small falcon, with its short, sharp bill designed for tearing flesh from bone. With a wingspan of 11 inches, he is the smallest bird of the series.
The final two did not wish to be separated. They seem to be locked in an eternal dance as they soar in tandem, a study in shadow and light.

One for the Frog Queen

2011-03-27T14:32:00.002-05:00

I'm not easily startled, but I was just about to pick up this paint brush when I noticed it had a visitor.....

a visitor with tiny green eyes.

The Tar Phoenix: back to the ashes

2011-03-25T17:59:00.006-05:00

Every so often a series of creatures will naturally run its course. It is as if the idea that once burned hot has fizzled to a small ember and threatens to go out entirely. Rather than force the idea and run the risk of extinguishing it forever, it becomes time to let the ember glow in it's bed of coals. Perhaps a new breath of life will uncover it in the future, fanning the flames of creativity until it burns white hot again. Perhaps it won't. Either way, I have learned that once an idea has gone cold, it is best to walk away. What will be will be.

I have three nearly finished Tar Phoenix sculpts currently on the bench. The final textures and painting will happen this weekend and then I am going to put the idea away for a while. I can't explain it any better than I have tried above. It just seems like time to allow the idea to rest in my subconscious once again until it decides to rise back up from the ashes.

Imposter

2011-03-15T19:21:00.003-05:00

Charlatan. Fake. Trickster. This Pumpkin-headed Scarecrow has disguised himself as a witch and is trying his hand at a devious brew. Is he attempting to concoct a potion to do away with the crows once and for all, or does he by chance have a more sinister intent?

Two old friends need a good home

2011-03-11T20:43:00.004-06:00

This has been a very bad week on the Shadow Farm. I am faced with several unforeseen bills due to catastrophic automotive failure (2 dead cars in a week) and must raise some money to pay the repairs. I have thought of selling these two characters for a while now, but just couldn't force myself to part with their company. Both were created in the spring of 2008, and stand as my favorite pieces to date. They have watched over my shop and inspired countless creepy minions. They are trusted friends that have shared some of my deepest secrets.

Times are hard. Tough decisions have been made. Icharus an Darwin are now up for adoption on Etsy.

Thanks for looking.

Dark and Creeping

2011-03-10T19:26:00.001-06:00

The Tar Phoenix returns

2011-03-09T21:03:00.002-06:00

Two new Tar Phoenix's just finished and ready for new homes on Etsy.

The Willowmite Revealed

2011-03-04T16:19:00.009-06:00

A ghostly sobbing has long been reported within the overgrown and nearly forgotten Shadow Farm Cemetery. The ethereal moans have been part of the urban lore for as long as I can remember, creeping into the type of stories told by campfire light where the teller is lit from below by a single flashlight. I am here to tell you that these stories are true-
although the explanation is just as incredible as the stories of wandering souls roaming amongst the cold stones.

I have heard the cries with my own ears, but refused to believe in ghosts and spectres. I am here to tell of the creature known only as the Willowmite.

The night she first allowed herself to be seen, I was camped out in the back corner of the graveyard, recording equipment at the ready for any sign of the supernatural. I heard a soft sobbing, and turned my flashlight towards the noise. What first struck me about this remarkable creature were the eyes. Pupil-less pearl orbs embedded in a sea of black, they shone like nothing I have ever seen before. I was hypnotized as she slowly moved out of the small burrow at the edge of a lonely gravestone. My camera was ready, and I took the first clear shot of the creature nobody knew existed.
In the following nights, I became more familiar with her,and she more trustful in me. She allowed me to introduce a light for better photography.

Through careful observation I have learned several things of her behaviors. First the obvious. She is a small, nocturnal burrowing creature of unknown species approximately six inches in height. She has thick arms and two clumsy 'hands'. She also has eight insect-like appendages projected from her sides, presumably to aid in motivation throughout her system of tiny catacombs. She likes to gnaw on dry wood and lives her life entirely within the shady reaches of willow trees. I assume the willow bark is her sole source of food, but cannot do better than guess at what she may consume underground. An old cemetery with its elderly trees and shallow graves seems to be her perfect environment.
She sings a soft, sad song that is amplified and distorted by her tunnels, making her coos sound like a moaning ghost.
She collects shiny baubles from the caskets she gnaws through, and spends hours staring at these mementos of lost lives. Photographs, buttons, jewelry, and teeth seem to be her favorites. During our evening together, she produced quite an impressive cache of precious objects, and seemed almost eager to show them to me.

She fashions a shawl out of rotted pieces of burial shroud. A thick yellowish liquid seems to run constantly from her eyes like tears, adding to her mournful demeanor.
I have found no record of any similar creature anywhere on earth which leads me to wonder if she is the last of her kind.

More thoughts on names

2011-03-03T21:05:00.004-06:00

It has been nearly agonizing to me over the past day or so struggling to find a name for my new creature. Those of you who follow me on twitter have some idea of what I have been going thru. I have been obsessed. During this time I have come to the following conclusions, which relate to my own experience only. Other artists will certainly have different opinions and experiences than this.

I enjoy developing a story to go with my characters. I feel it gives them a feeling of authenticity, and helps to explain and define some of their unique quirks. It is a process of exploration that I sometimes leave behind, but is very satisfying when I give it my all.
A name is important, but sometimes a general description can suffice. This advice was given to me by Ghoul Friday. Sometimes giving a creature a "scientific name" is more effective than a formal surname. For example, I feed the squirrels in my backyard, but I don't have individual names for each squirrel. calling an animal 'squirrel' defines what it should look like and how it should act. Sometimes that is enough.
There are times when leaving details out allow for the viewer to fill in the blanks and build stories of their own. A backstory can be helpful to a character, but an outline is usually enough....now if a character really speaks to me and has alot to say, then it is my duty to tell the story.
I have been obsessing over this issue, but that is ok. I feel like It has been a good experience and has stirred up some of the old creativity.

So without further ado, I present the first photograph of the mysterious Willowmite. A proper introduction to this creature will be unveiled this weekend.

What's in a Name?

2011-03-02T09:38:00.003-06:00

Naming a character that I create is a very personal experience for me. I have had many comments on how unusual the names are that I give some of my creations and thought it is time to jot some of my thoughts down. Please forgive me if this post makes no sense whatsoever. I have no formula for assigning a name and therein lies much of the fun. In my experience, the name is sometimes as critical to the character as the sculpting details.

While I sculpt, I find that there are two distinct scenarios that come in to play. The first is when I know the name from the beginning. There are times when the perfect name comes to me, and I just know that I have to create a character to go with the name. In these cases, the sculpting process is usually a mad dash to the finish line where I have a clear and distinct vision to follow. I already have the character's life framed in my mind, so I already know what he looks like, how he moves, lives, thinks, and breathes. Sculpting is simply a matter of giving all these notions a physical form. It can be frustrating when the form doesn't seem to cooperate with the concept, but for the most part the process is already deeply rooted in my mind and I just have to follow what I already know. ( If that makes any sense)

The second scenario is when I start to sculpt without a clear idea of the character. I will have a general idea of where I want to go with a piece, starting with a shape, pattern, or texture that caught my attention somewhere as I daydreamed, and I use a very loose 'stream of consciousness' style to my sculpting process. I allow my imagination to wander while I sculpt, sometimes wandering far off the initial rough concept into uncharted territory. When this happens, it is almost as if I am being introduced to a stranger. I have to observe the creature and get to know it before a name is given. As the creature develops before my eyes, I discover things I never knew...where does this thing live, what does it like, how does it go about its day to day functions? Normally at some point when I have learned enough through the very act of creating, the perfect name will just pop into my head.

So why all this introspection? Well, it is because I have a piece that is giving me trouble. The sculpting is nearly done and no name has come. I am beginning to panic as I fear I have missed the magic moment. I feel like I know a few things about this new piece. She is quiet. She is slow. She has a very ancient feel to her and most likely would smell of dry dirt. She has an affinity to dry-rotted wood, and very much likes to chew it into a fine paste. She is of the earth. I do not yet know if she is a threat to have around or if she is a blessing...I prefer the latter as I look into her eyes. She has a sadness and calmness about her. She is maternal.

But still no name. So what next? I will most likely study her and think about her for a period of time until the name comes. Then I will finish her painting and offer her up for adoption. I hope whoever purchases her does so because she calls to them in the same deep way as she is being created.

Icharus Revisited

2011-02-22T16:39:00.002-06:00

Sneek peak at the new and improved paint job on one of my all time favorite sculpts. I am very glad I gathered the courage to re-do him!

Shop rehab continues

2011-02-20T08:24:00.003-06:00

Work on the shop has progressed over the last week. Above is an in-progress picture of the new space before the addition of a proper workbench top. The ultra-cluttered table in the center is on casters, making it a versatile piece of furniture in a very small shop space. I happened to score big with a cast-out laminate desk top from work this week. Below, my art bench is really starting to take shape. Still planned is the addition of shelf space under the bench, additional shelves above the bench, and better lighting.
I have also started the re-paint of my old friend Icharus. I really like this character, but his current paint scheme has always bothered me. He was one of my first air-brush pieces and I was never satisfied with the depth and variation of color...I will do much better this time with all the tricks I have learned.

And totally off-topic...This is Jane in mid-yawn. Doesn't she look evil?

Outrageous Giveaway Winner!

2011-02-18T16:43:00.002-06:00

The oracles at Random.Org have spoken.

The winner of The Shadow Farm Outrageous Giveaway is Ghostie.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to enter and shared pictures and stories of your Shadow Farm creations in their new homes. I really enjoyed hearing from each of you and appreciate your support for my art.

PeanutGnome's Contest entry

2011-02-18T08:06:00.004-06:00

PeanutGnome was one of the very first to show interest in my Outrageous Giveaway contest, and purchased one of my Gruesome Easter Eggs so he would qualify to participate. Currently his item is locked in the wasteland somewhere between Edmonton and the border of The Shadow Farm. I really expected it to arrive by now. So in an effort to wrap up my contest, I am making his entry official. Check out PeanutGnome's World and the dEdmonton.com Halloween Festival .I would also like to recommend his new project dEdmonton TV on YouTube , a short and sweet podcast promoting Halloween goodness worldwide.

Sorry for the long Shipping Time PeanutGnome! Good luck in the contest.

So with that, the Shadow Farm Outrageous Giveaway Contest is officially closed. I will turn the list of names over to the demons at Random.org later tonight and make the official announcement of the grand prize winner. Thanks to everyone who entered and good luck to you all!

And the winner is.....

2011-02-15T19:28:00.002-06:00

...going to be announced later this week. In the meantime, here's a photo of Lloyd and Louise from my collection of old strange photos.

Shop Rehab

2011-02-14T12:22:00.005-06:00

The itch has hit. I have been thinking about re-arranging the shop for quite a while, and with the warm weather yesterday I finally worked up the energy to start. What you see above is actually the "after" picture. I did not have the foresight to take a before shot...it was just too depressing. Keep in mind that what is shown is an in-progress shot and that I am nowhere close to being done. My shop is a one-car attached garage, and I share the space with a bunch of clutter from the house. Re-arranging was alot like those little handheld games where you slide tiles around to form a picture...moving one thing usually means moving three or four things first. I won't bore you with all the details of the move, but it went something like this
Garage shelf to shed> rearrange shed> move freezer> move main storage shelf down 5 feet> move table saw> rearrange all shelves> find old props in need of repair> abandon all hope of completing project> sweep> take a break> regain the resolve to clean> shovel out a ton of trash> re fill shelves> sleep.

So now I am in a holding pattern, awaiting time and $$ to build a new workbench in the space shown in the center where the empty white wall is. Storage will be key to completing the task, getting all unnecessary items off the bench tops and in an easily accessible and organized place. Wish me luck.

In the meantime, I will be cleaning up a pair of old friends, Darwin and Icharus. They are probably the most involved character sculpts I have done, but sadly have been neglected and subjected to the rigors of a cluttered shop. Once complete, I will be offering them up for adoption on Etsy.

Spooky1's Contest Entry

2011-02-14T10:05:00.005-06:00

Spooky1 is a member of HauntForum, and also happens to be the husband of the previous contest entrant RoxyBlue. This pair of haunters has been frequent customers of The Shadow Farm, taking turns purchasing scary items for each other. Most recently, Spooky1 purchased the Skeletal Cat as a Valentine's Day present.

"The Christmas Goblin (Electric Goblin) and most recently the Skeletal Cat proudly reside on our entertainment center among an assortment of fantasy creatures, including two other Dave creations (Pumpkin Bettie & White Reaper seen in RoxyBlue’s submission). Roxy and I have gifted each other with these unique and wonderful creations over the last year or so. The Electric Goblin seems unsure of his new neighbor, thinking the Skeletal Cat may covet his prized Christmas lights. While the Skeletal Cat has quickly made himself at home in his new digs, between the Goblin and the beautiful Pumpkin Bettie, though at night I imagine he may wander away from his tombstone to acquaint himself with his new neighborhood & neighbors.

Dave, I gave Roxy the Skeletal Cat as an early Valentine’s Day present and she loves him. Thanks again for creating such wonderful creatures, they make the most unique gifts."

Thanks so much to both Spooky1 and RoxyBlue for keeping The Shadow Farm in mind when searching for unique and spooky gifts for each other.

There is one more contest entry out there anxiously awaiting the arrival of his Shadow Farm purchase. I have decided to bring an early close to this contest, and will pick the winner as soon as the final entry is received. I will however accept new entries until that final one is posted (see contest rules and edit for complete details) I send out a wholehearted Thank You to every one who has entered the contest and wish each of you the best of luck!
Dave

Outrageous Giveaway Contest almost Over!

2011-02-13T17:19:00.002-06:00

Just a few hours left to make a purchase from my etsy shop and still participate in my Giveaway Contest. Check out my shop and get your purchase in before midnight tonight!

RoxyBlue's Contest Entry

2011-02-11T18:39:00.007-06:00

RoxyBlue is a very quiet sort of person...shy, reserved, and never seems to have much to say.

( hack...cough...sputter gets off the floor from a laughing fit )

Ok...maybe not. If you have ever been over to HauntForum, chances are you have met up with RoxyBlue in one for or another. She is one of the forum Moderators and most likely it's most active member. ( current post count over 32,000 posts!) Roxy contacted me to make a special Pumpkin Creature as a gift for her hubby inspired by Betty Paige and other pin-up girls. Adapting my style to the pin-up genre was challenging and a lot of fun! After the Pumpkin Betty sculpt, Roxy came back for more of my work, showing off several of my pieces on her mantle.

Pumpkin Betty and the regal Winter Reaper currently reside atop our
entertainment center, a place that is peopled with gargoyles and
fairies, dragons and witches, and other creatures both macabre and
haunting. Ms Betty privately considers herself the most alluring of the
inhabitants of her small world and is rumored to be carrying on a mild
flirtation with one of the many gargoyles populating the house. She is
occasionally coy, sometimes petulant, but she has a kind heart and
cheerfully shares her space with the also alluring pin-up minion Salome.

The Winter Reaper, an older and infinitely wiser being, considers
herself above the youthful games of her neighbors. She rarely speaks,
preferring to observe, listen, and absorb every detail of the world
around her. Her ever-extended arm stands as a symbol that, pleasant as
the current moments may be, they are but fleeting and the future will be
upon us all before we know it.

I am really excited to see my work right alongside another pin-up inspired piece created by Ghoul Friday. Thanks Roxy! Now seriously, you need loosen up a bit on the forum....

The cut-of to make a purchase from my shop and enter the contest is coming soon. Check the Outrageous Giveaway rules for details. Get you entry in for a chance to win your choice of any item from my etsy shop!

Haybudden's Contest Entry

2011-02-09T08:19:00.005-06:00

I have greatly enjoyed reading all the accounts of my creations in their new homes...the mischief they have been causing, the snide remarks, the inspirational surrounds of their new abodes. Each and every one of you has obviously taken great pains to give your Shadow Farm creations a decent home. Haybudden, on the other hand, has raised the bar and not only given his adoptees a home...he has looked into the soul of the creation and found the perfect environment to allow them to fully express their essence.

"The Harbinger was the first of ShadowFarm's creations that we brought home and he wasn't the last. Seeing that he and I shared the same tastes I knew that he would be a perfect addition to our home and I wasn't disappointed. From the moment of his arrival The Harbinger settled in nicely alongside the humidor and has guarded it faithfully ever since. Family and friends visit often and always seem to be drawn to him. Those that have commented on him in the past seem to find new praise whenever they see him again.
The Bishop takes center stage with some of my favorite bottles. Here he offers the temperance that one might need when choosing to imbibe, not that I need it. The shelving separates the breezeway entrance into our kitchen, which means that we get to enjoy him each and every day."

Thanks much Haybudden. I appreciate the pictures and kind words you have sent, and am thrilled to see the guys looking so much at home.

The end of this contest is drawing near. So far I have 9 entries in the running for the grand prize. If you haven't entered yet, what are you waiting on? Check the rules and give it a shot! Somebody will be winning their choice of any item from my shop...you have nothing to loose! Thanks yet again to everyone who has purchased from my shop and all the entries so far.

The Hatchling, small version

2011-02-08T16:06:00.001-06:00

One of my large Halloween props in 2009 was entitled "The Hatchling" . It was a graveyard monument that depicted a creature just emerging from a pumpkin shell. This piece took me weeks to complete, and the detailing never seemed to end. Recently I made a small version of this concept to sell on Etsy. It was alot of fun to work in a small scale. The new version is a mere 5 1/2 inches tall, but would make a great accent piece to keep out all year long.

RavenFaes Creations' Contest entry

2011-02-07T18:24:00.003-06:00

Raven from RavenFaes Creations has the honor of having purchased one of my largest pieces to date. When I set out to create the Pumpkin Lantern Holder, I really had no clue what I was doing. In my usual style, I allowed the process and developing character to guide the end result. Since then, I have made two others very similar to this piece, but none seemed to capture the playful spirit of Autumnal hauntings quite like the original.

"Your creepy little critters have completely captivated my heart and haunt my studio where I can look upon them each and every time I go out to my sacred space! I've included pics of 2 of the 3 deadly darlings (my uncle now has Goon the Butcher - I reluctantly gave it to him after his incessant pleading). I am going to be keeping my fingers crossed (makes it rather hard to type this damn email but anyway). Looking forward to the announcement of the lucky lucky winner!!"

Thanks a bunch Raven! It really is great knowing that a couple of my creations are there during your creative excursions...hopefully they are kind to the Hob Dumplins. ( If not, let me know and I'll write them a strongly worded letter telling them to behave!) Good luck in the contest!

Less than a week left to enter! Check out the details and get with it folks! The clock is ticking....

Labyrinth Creations' Contest Entry

2011-02-07T09:00:00.001-06:00

Pam from Labyrinth Creations has quite an assortment of critters from The Shadow Farm. I had to giggle when I opened her email to see her three lined up...I had almost forgotten about the crazy thing on the right...still not quite sure what I was thinking when I made it, but I named the creation "Bad Radish." Sometimes the strangest things come to me while I sculpt. It's great to see these guys have a home in such great company!

"These little guys stick with me year-round--they occupy a place of honor smack dab in front of one of Pumpkinrot's groundbreakers and they are surrounded on all sides by 'folks' just like them. Actually, they and a host of other ghouls and bizarre creatures enjoy looking down on me from their shelves as I do my sculpting. They think nothing of throwing out little pithy sayings and criticizing the hell out of my work while I'm trying to concentrate and get something done. As you can see in the photograph, the little bad-ass pumpkin dude is permanently disgusted with my work while little round 'many-arms' consistently tries to scare the living daylights out of me. Fortunately, bony wizard kitty is more laid back and while he enjoys the comments and insults from the peanut gallery, he seems to have a bit of pity for me and keeps the situation from getting out of hand.
So, that's how life is progressing for your wonderful little creations since they have departed from "The Shadowfarm". They are, despite their somewhat contemptuous attitude towards me, well-loved and they know it!"

Take a few minutes and go check out Pam's website www.Labyrinth-Creations.com. She is truly a talented artist! Thanks for your support of me and my artwork, Pam! Good Luck in the contest.

One week left! If you haven't yet entered, it is not too late. Check out this post for the details on how to get a chance to win your choice of any item in my etsy shop!

Love is Forever

2011-02-06T17:39:00.005-06:00

Looking for a unique way to express your "Undying" love this Valentine. Nothing says forever like this morbid gothic curiosity just listed on Etsy. I have 3 Valentine Crypts available for immediate shipping. All orders will be mailed within 24 hours of purchase. Get tht freaky special someone a gift that will not be forgotten this year.

Tuck's Contest Entry

2011-02-06T09:00:00.001-06:00

I have known Tuck for a while now. We met as members of HauntForum, and he has actually been to my house to participate in Make-n-Take prop building sessions. I thought it was really cool when he purchased "Sibling Rivaly" last summer. Later, when his wife contacted me with a special commission request I was a bit nervous about how to do the subject justice and still retain my own style. Tuck writes:

"I purchased Sibling Rivalry as a gift for my brother. He was just getting into all things Halloween and I knew his Christmas present this year should be something related. I browsed through Dave's creations and found that this sculpture fit the relationship between my brother and I perfectly, well perhaps not anymore but as kids I'm sure there were many times we were close to killing each other. The only problem was when it arrived I did not want to give it up. With a little persuasion from my wife we wrapped it back up and gave it to him on Christmas. He absolutely loved it. It is now proudly displayed on his TV stand for all to see.

The second purchase came as a surprise from my wife. After she saw the disappointment in my eye when I had to give Sibling Rivalry away she commissioned Mr. the Dead to do a piece for our anniversary. I do not know how Dave felt creating something that was a bit on the happy side but I was ecstatic about it when I opened it up. The happy pumpkin couple have just the right amount of happiness and oddness that shows off Dave's talents. The amount of detail in their hands and feet, not to mention the perfectly tailored clothing make this piece all the better. They reign supreme on the plant pyramid in our dining room all year long (which is a big deal as the wife doesn't like holiday pieces to sit out all year). They are a nice reminder of Halloween each time I look at them, not to mention how awesome my wife is for getting such a great piece."

Thanks Tuck ( and your wife) for purchasing my art and supporting my habit. I am proud to know that two of my pieces have made the jump from just Halloween decorations to 'all-year' pieces. Good luck in the contest!

Time is ticking away! Don't forget to send in your entry for my Outrageous Giveaway contest!

Ghosties' Contest Entry

2011-02-05T09:12:00.004-06:00

What a fantastic story this is! Ghosties purchased three of my Pumpkin Creatures at the very height of their production in 2009. I ran a series of the little characters ( 16 in all) where I endeavored to make each creature a unique personality. During this phase, I decided to number them rather than attempt to give each one a name. Ghosties tells the story of how she came upon the name for her trio of Pumpkins.

"I am sending you a picture of the three pumpkin creatures I bought from The Shadow Farm. I love the Pumpkin creatures, and so I had to have three of them. Here they are in all their Halloween glory, being displayed in the Curiosity Cabinet in my living room.

I have gotten a good range of comments on them; "That's just creepy"...."I love their expressions" (so do I!)....."WHAT did you say they were?". "They're kinda cute...in a weird sort of way." But my favorite comment is from my Dad. My Dad really liked them. Dad was wheelchair bound for the last 2 years of his life, so when I went to see him one day last October I took "The Boys" with me. He turned them over and over, and kept looking at them, but didn't say anything right away. I thought that was all the reaction I was going to get, but when I left that night he said "Bring the Three Stooges back with you when you come." And that's how they got their names.

So here are "Larry", "Moe", and "Curly" getting into more mischief; seems they found a skull in the back yard, and they were trying to figure out what it was from.
Larry; "I know! It's a Dragon!"
Moe; "No it's not, you nucklehead!"
Curly; "It's a Grouse!....Nyuk! Nyuk! Nyuk!"

Ghosties, thank you so very much for sharing this story. I am humbled to think that something that I created made such an impression on your father.

Keep the entries coming! I have really enjoyed getting back in touch with all of you and reading your stories, and seeing the pictures of my creations in their new homes. Go to THIS POST for details on how to enter and get a chance of winning your choice of any item from my Etsy shop.

The Mop Ladies

2011-02-04T18:51:00.004-06:00

A rare look at the Kitchen Mafia of the lower East Side.

be afraid.