It’s all in the tongue. De Lara relies on physical humor, seduction, and the uncanny to create provocative and enigmatic sculptures. He explores the complexities of wood species as he finds them to hold infinite formal possibilities and inherent beauty. He aims to perceive and maximize the sensory, sensible, sentimental, and sensuous dimensions of human nature. A mallet, chisels, and abrasives are rooted in his workmanship, while the conjunction of textural depth and high attention to detail turn him on. Being physical with the entire production process is an essential aspect of De Lara's practice, as he uses his own body, physical presence, and behavior to inform the work. The gaze between the viewer and his work is mutual. De Lara holds a High Honors BFA from The University of Texas at Austin and has exhibited work nationally and internationally: Texas, Florida, Arkansas, Illinois, Michigan, and Mexico City. He is a co-founder of Fat City Arts in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood.
HATCH Projects