Every October, artist Tracy Beals relishes the opportunity to stand among sculptures in Port Angeles’ Webster’s Woods and carve pumpkins.

She specializes in sculptures and watercolors inspired by nature, and joins the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center’s annual fall festival to teach adults and children how to carve.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate fall and art,” Beals said. “… And find community in the coming darkness.”

Here are some tips and tricks from her and other pumpkin-carving experts. Expert tips for beginners Image 1 of 1

Deane Arnold, Tracy Beals (Jennifer Luxton / The Seattle Times)

Choosing a pumpkin: Many of us might set out searching for the white whale of pumpkins — a perfectly round, smooth-skinned orange beauty. But Beals encourages carvers to try finding inspiration

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