This Week @ Monday Creek: Charles DeLay World Artist

My husband was consumed with his drag bikes, racing at National Trails Raceway and other Ohio tracks. A devout motorcycle enthusiast (motorcycle maniac, like all of the D'Andrea brothers), I’ve seen him completely disassemble a motorcycle down to the frame and rebuild it, creating his own unique super-fast bike. I was never into the heat and smoke of the track; however, there’s something about a man in full leathers at the tree waiting for the lights to descend. The joy in his eyes and the anticipation for the win are thrilling.

A street rider, too, my husband has had more bikes than I can count (I suppose someday we’ll make a list)  – everything from a Honda “Super Blackbird” CBR1100XX, earning its name from the Lockheed SR‑71 Blackbird, the fastest jet ever built, to less intimidating CBR’s, dirt bikes, etc.

One day, my husband and my son returned home from a ride to Strouds Run State Park all hyped about a man they had met at the lake who wanted to buy my son's bike – the bike he was riding that day. The man wanted the bike, a Yamaha XT 250, to putt around the area where he lived. They agreed, on the spot, to sell the bike.

The man was world artist Charles DeLay. Not realizing at the time exactly who Charles was (I thought he was just another guy buying a motorcycle), I now realize the impact Charles has made through his creative endeavors. I wish I had taken more time to talk with Charles, look at his hands, discover his muse(s), and learn about his favorite poets. Besides writing poetry, he is renowned for his contributions to creative illustration and design, mentoring future generations and contributing to art initiatives, including regional art centers, private collections, regional galleries, and historical societies. You can see photos of Charles’ work on his website myplace.frontier.com/~cdelay/id30.

The day came for Charles to pick up his new bike. Charles, reaching in my direction, gently placed signed copies of two of his poetry collections in my hand, a gift that is kept safe and now worn from many hours of reading. His poetry resonates and makes me think of far-away places, transforming a moment into something else, a welcome distraction to a difficult day, or a stanza that gives new insights to a particular life event or image.

Of all the books on my shelf, Charles’ books are most treasured. A Strouds Run serendipitous encounter, I am thankful, Charles, for meeting you, for your poetry. Thank you.

More about Charles…

Charles DeLay is a prominent figurative sculptor known for his work in bronze, stone, and wood. He has been an artist for his entire life, starting his career at the young age of seven by selling oil paintings. Over the years, DeLay has completed more than 130 major commissions, many of which are large-scale sculptures located in public spaces and private collections across the eastern United States and Washington D.C.. His works often explore themes of birth and death, as exemplified by his sculpture "Fetal Man," which depicts a figure in a fetal position. DeLay's artistic approach emphasizes the emotional expressions of the human figure, reflecting his deep connection to the human experience.

DeLay's artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to his craft, and he continues to create impactful works that resonate with audiences. His sculptures often embody a blend of traditional techniques and contemporary themes, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Sedona Arizona Community Library: https://communitylibrarysedona.libcal.com/event/14581509

https://www.redrocknews.com/2023/06/29/charles-delays-sculpture-arrives-at-sedona-library/

Arizona Artist Day

https://arizonaartistaday2.wordpress.com/2018/07/16/day-107-charles-delay/