“Amaryllis”
at the Cerritos Civic Center
Updated December 23, 2009
Amaryllis by Sharles is located in the park-like Cerritos Civic Center in the area west of the Cerritos Library. Amaryllis consists of eight sculptures within a circular pool. The central sculpture, of an amaryllis bulb, is 11 feet tall and features a jet of water flowing from the center of its flowers into the pool. Surrounding the pool are colorful sculptures of a turtle, fish, frog and a swan emerging from lily pads. The piece also has lily flower sculptures with water jets that flow toward the center of the pool.
As the official sculptor for the American Endangered Species Foundation, Sharles uses his work to explore the balance and interrelationships of all parts of nature, whether animal or plant. His loose impressionistic technique allows him to capture the essence of these creatures in energetic tableaus. He aims for a fresh, mysterious drama; full of enchantment, adventure and fluid beauty.
Sharles has been a professional artist since 1967. His style is influenced by his extensive studies in Japan, Hong Kong, Europe, Canada and the east coast of the United States. His research into the environment and the life it supports led to the dedication of his work to dramatizing the plight of wildlife and environmental concerns.
Public commissions by Sharles include Left Hand of God for the Atlantic City Courthouse, a bas-relief for the City of Palm Desert, California; Moonbeam for Centaur-West Galleries, Chicago, Illinois and North Shore Nursing Home, Loveland, Colorado; Evolution of Flight for Continental Airlines; Angel of Caring for United Way; Great American Eagle Fountain for J.M.J. Corporation; a bas-relief for the Omaha Botanical Gardens, Omaha, Nebraska; and a bas-relief for the Loveland Museum and Gallery, Loveland, Colorado.
Sharles' work has also been commissioned by such entertainers as Jerry Lewis, Betty Davis, Zero Mostel, Kay Ballard and Duke Ellington. His work has also been collected by the American Endangered Species Foundation, Apollo Space Program, RCA Records, Alva Museum Reproductions and New Southwest Art Magazine.
