ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — In a quiet corner of Asheville’s Five Points neighborhood, an unusual community art project is taking shape — one empty milk jug at a time.

Local artists Valérie Holstein and her neighbor, John Nelson Batovsky, are asking residents to donate used half-gallon milk or juice containers to help build their harvest skeleton front-yard sculpture: a larger-than-life ear of corn.

The project is part of an evolving series of outdoor displays the pair began after Tropical Storm Helene, initially as a small effort to lift spirits in their neighborhood. What started as a modest installation has since grown into a rotating, year-round showcase that draws visitors and repeat passersby.

“My neighbor and I, both artists, decided to make a very small display in his front yard to make people smile,” Holstein said. “It became very popular, and the feedback was so positive that we ended up making more displays.”

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Holstein, a retired artist who serves as the project’s builder and prop maker, collaborates with Batovsky, a working artist and framer, who acts as art director and stage manager for the installations.

Their displays, assembled piece by piece over several days, are designed to keep neighbors curious and engaged. Holstein said the slow rollout encourages people to return to see what’s new.

The installations have struck a chord, particularly with families in the area. Holstein said some children, including those on the autism spectrum, have responded by sending drawings and letters inspired by the displays. Others have told the artists they go out of their way on their daily commute just to catch a glimpse of the evolving scenes.

The latest project, dubbed an “Easterween” display, blends whimsical and slightly spooky elements, drawing inspiration from pop culture while remaining approachable for children.

To complete the corn sculpture, Holstein estimates they will need about 120 half-gallon containers, though she said they may incorporate gallon jugs as well. Donations can be dropped off at the front steps of the installation site on East Chestnut Street.

Community response has already been enthusiastic, with neighbors offering materials and ideas for future creations — and plenty of corn-themed puns.

Beyond the art itself, Holstein said the goal is to strengthen neighborhood ties and spark joy.

“Our hope is to build a more tight-knit Five Points community,” she said, “and keep Asheville weird.”