Pumpkin carving master with ties to Westchester to judge Food Network show

If you like Halloween and the art of pumpkin-carving, tune in to the Food Network Sept. 29, when former Westchester and Dutchess County resident — and acclaimed pumpkin sculptor — Deane Arnold will be a judge on the first "all-star" season of “Outrageous Pumpkins."

Known for his quirky and hyper-realistic designs, Arnold, who lived in Armonk and White Plains until fourth grade before moving to LaGrangeville, will help determine which team of expert carvers will squash the competition (pun intended) for the $50,000 grand prize.

Arnold, who now lives in Columbus, Ohio, has long been prominent in the elite pumpkin carving world. He has helped experienced professionals sharpen their own sculpting skills for years. Many of those competing on Food Network's "Halloween Wars" and "Outrageous Pumpkins" have, in fact, taken his master classes.

More: Your seasonal guide to pumpkin picking in the Hudson Valley

He told The Journal News/lohud that based on his past experiences, the production company good-naturedly gave him the unofficial title of "Pumpkin Artist in Residence."

Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter .

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Pumpkin carving master with ties to Westchester to judge Food Network show