Monday, November 1, 2010

Scarecrows as art - III

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

A little bit more from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest.... (drumroll) the first place winner is... Michael Holmes, from Napa!

I wanted to share a few wonderful details of Michael Holmes's pumpkinhead scarecrow. Here's an overview – the scarecrow sits on a stump, with cornstalks around him.

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

Despite a countenance whose friendliness looks questionable, this fellow shows his heart of gold as he shares popcorn with his crow friends. (Now, that's a nice way to spend your time in a cornfield... or anywhere.)

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

There are so many exquisite little details, like the tendrils of the pumpkin stem, and the gestures of each of the crows.

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

The crows are happily munching on popcorn. I wonder if the popcorn will bring in real crows, too - there are plenty in the neighborhood. Would they be intimidated by the ones they'd see here?

Crow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

I love the simplicity and featheriness of the crow's newspaper wings. They flutter in a breeze.

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

More crows enjoying their snacks. It's a nice harvest party....

Crow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

This crow holds the scarecrow's number (for the competition). He's #13.

Pheasants by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

A couple of pheasants have joined the feast. They're made of feathers and natural materials.

Scarecrow by Michael Holmes, from the First Annual Calistoga Scarecrow Contest © photo 2010 Karen Lynn Ingalls

A last look at the tableau.... It really needs a name, don't you think? Scarecrow's Party? Friends' Feast? What name would you choose?

You can see more of Michael Holmes's design work (it's sumptuous and creative) at his website, www.michaelholmesdesigns.com.

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