A collection of more than 40 watercolors and sculptures by Sonora artist and retired educator and engineer Charles W. Clyde is on display through Dec. 11, 2023 in the Columbia College Manzanita Building Rotunda at 11600 Columbia College Drive, Sonora. The upper level of the Manzanita Building is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Charles Clyde, now 91, took up painting in retirement after a long career that included teaching drafting and related courses at Sonora High School and Columbia College. Friends and family have organized this display from personal collections, and will host a public reception at the Manzanita Building on Friday, Sept. 8 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Throughout his education and career in engineering and drafting, Clyde never lost his interest in art, and took occasional art classes along the way. After retiring from teaching in 1998, he picked up a watercolor set from his daughters’ old school supplies, and began the process of teaching himself to paint. Since then, he has produced over 200 works and continues to paint into his 90s. He does not sell his art, but gives away many to friends who express an interest.

Clyde was born in 1932 in Big Piney, Wyoming. His mother died after childbirth, and he was raised by his father who owned a dance hall and bar. After striking out on his own at the age of 16, he eventually graduated from the University of Wyoming. He went on to engineer the new freeway system across the state of Wyoming (Highway 80) and he taught civil engineering related drafting at Sonora High School and Columbia College after earning his MA at San Jose State University. Clyde and his wife, Araminta, have been married for 66 years and raised three children: Molly, Charles Jr. and Kerry, who plan to be at the Sept. 8 reception.

Many of Clyde’s watercolors depict landscapes and nature scenes from his life and travels.

“It’s been amazing to pull this all together,” said Stan Smith, a close friend of Charles Clyde.

Along with his wife Earlene, Smith curated the display.

“There is such truth in every painting. When he sees things in his mind or in nature, he’s so honest,” Smith said.

Earlene agreed, and said the project has been very rewarding.

“Charlie is a beloved mentor to so many in our community,” she said. “We hope many will come enjoy this beautiful exhibit and learn about this side of him.”

For information, contact the Columbia College President’s office at 209-588-5115.