The art of pumpkin carving

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- For most people carving a pumpkin consists of cutting out a few misguided shapes and maybe a smile until it resembles something that can pass as a face. But for Russ Leno, he takes the art of pumpkin carving to a whole new level.

"When you start seeing somebody sculpting-everybody is like wow you can do that with a pumpkin," said Leno.

Leno started carving pumpkins for his kids 30 years ago just for fun. He still enjoys it but now he is making a living sculpting some of the most amazing designs you'd ever imagine. From Medusa to the wicked witch -- leno has carefully carved his way into an industry few people ever dream of trying.

"It's just art right--just a different way of expressing yourself. It took me a long time to get here believe me. When I first started there was five of us. It was kind of a triangle eyed pumpkin to start with."

Pumpkin carving has come a long way since then. Leno's skill and attention to detail has taken him all over the world. This week you can find him in the Ag building at the Big Fresno Fair -- whittling away on a giant gourd while rocking out to classic rock.

"Sculpting has just taken off. It's taken me everywhere--places I never even thought of. I was on the U.S. Snow Sculpting team, competed against the world went to Japan, China, and Switzerland."