The Story

October has always been one of my favorite times of year.

The air gets cooler, the leaves begin to change, and everywhere you look people are getting ready for Halloween.

When Anabela and I created this piece, we wanted to capture some of that fun autumn atmosphere.

You'll notice the flying bats scattered throughout the artwork.

And if you look closely, you'll probably notice that my giant Benny Doro crest is trying its best to look like one of them.

It gave the piece a little personality without turning it into something spooky or over the top.

As always, we wanted to include a recipe that fit the season.

I didn't have anything that looked like fake blood, thankfully, but I did have a recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.

It seemed perfect.

The bright red color fit the October theme, and it's one of those recipes that's surprisingly easy to make at home.

In fact, I still think it's better than most of the hummus you'll find sitting on a supermarket shelf.

It's fresh.

It costs less to make.

And you don't have to spend six dollars on a little plastic container.

That's one of the things I always hoped these exhibits would do.

Maybe someone would enjoy looking at the artwork.

Then decide to make the recipe.

And discover something they might keep making for years.

Looking back, this exhibit reminds me that not everything has to be serious.

Sometimes it's just about celebrating the season, having a little fun, and sharing something worth passing along.

That's exactly what October Treats was meant to be.