In late November each year, I set aside some time to create a large-scale gingerbread house. Last year I did my studio and my home. The year before that, I built a victorian mansion modeled after some famous homes in the area. I've also built working chess sets (all editable) and replicas of other homes we have lived in. I do this because I believe creativity is a muscle; like all muscle groups, you sometimes have to do new/different exercises to help build strength. Working in sugar connects me to my family heritage (my parents both worked in a bakery) and my love for creative problem-solving and art. 

This year I built a whole village. As a kid, my parents would display a whole Dickensian porcelain village as a part of our Christmas decor. I thought combining the two traditions (gingerbread houses + Christmas village) into one display for my hallway would be fun.

 I always start by finding reference materials. Then I create a posterboard mock-up, so I have all the pieces and know how the puzzle fits together. Moving from 2D to 3D can be a great brain exercise! Once I know all the pieces will fit, there is a full day of baking, followed by several days of decorating and building. Some decorating must be done before assembly; others must be created and transferred later (usually wreaths and garlands). Finally, everything gets covered in a layer of icing icicles and powdered sugar for that fresh snowy look. 

I feel I can recharge and grow my photography talents by channeling my creative efforts into a hobby. Not only do I get a fun subject to photograph, but I get to build problem-solving skills that always need a good workout while making my house smell delicious all season long.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!