Nestled in a Brooklyn workshop, Maniac Pumpkin Carvers transforms ordinary pumpkins into intricate sculptures, setting them apart from the typical jack-o’-lanterns that populate porches and windowsills each October. Far from the usual triangle-eyed, jagged-mouthed creations, these pumpkins feature everything from detailed portraits to elaborate landscapes, redefining the expectations of what can be achieved with a gourd and some carving tools.
Before Shark Tank
Chris Soria and Marc Evan, the creative minds behind Maniac Pumpkin Carvers, first delved into Halloween arts while still in high school, creating a series of haunted houses that captured the imaginations of their community. As students at Parsons School of Design, they rediscovered their fondness for the holiday season and found a particular calling in pumpkin carving. Experimentation led to innovation, and soon their works were capturing widespread attention. Early media coverage brought requests from major clients like the New York Yankees and Food Network, eventually leading the pair to establish Maniac Pumpkin Carvers as a professional venture.
The company started modestly in a basement apartment and has since blossomed into a full-scale operation with a dedicated team of artists. The business has moved from Brooklyn to Nyack, New York, and for the last two seasons, the studio has been located in an expansive space at Ridge Hill in Yonkers, New York. Known collectively as Maniac HQ, these studios have become the crucible where art and tradition meld into something uniquely captivating.
Maniac offers an extensive array of services that go beyond traditional carving. At the core of their product line are custom-carved pumpkins, with possibilities limited only by imagination. They’ve etched everything from corporate logos to intricate portraits, often imbued with a near-holographic depth that mesmerizes onlookers. Their skillful attention to detail is a trademark, making each carving a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Moreover, the company makes the art of pumpkin carving accessible through classes and demonstrations. Aimed at artists of all skill levels, these educational offerings enable enthusiasts to improve their own carving skills. Instructors with years of teaching experience guide learners through the process, unlocking previously untapped levels of creativity.
The firm is also distinguished by its comprehensive media services. High-resolution photography and time-lapse videos document the creation of each pumpkin, serving both as a keepsake for clients and as compelling content for social media or advertising campaigns. The company has honed its photography skills over a decade, capturing the ethereal glow of their creations in various settings and styles.
To round off their services, Maniac Pumpkin Carvers offers decorative carvings tailored for special occasions like fall weddings. Their expertise in lettering and floral designs has caught the attention of publications like Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, and Good Housekeeping. As with their other creations, these elegant pumpkins are carved from locally grown produce, sourced from family farms that the company has had longstanding relationships with.
Maniac Pumpkin Carvers has carved out a unique niche in the world of seasonal artistry. By blending age-old traditions with modern craftsmanship and artistic vision, they’ve created a captivating spectacle that resonates with people of all ages. Their work has not only garnered viral online attention but has also been displayed in prestigious venues like the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum, making them a notable name in both the art world and the realm of festive fall celebrations.
