Bird Exhibit At Lettuce Lake Park Honors Local Couple

Earlier this year, an exhibit showcasing 39 life-like bird sculptures by Chuck and Mary Fairbanks opened at the visitors’ center at .

The permanent display is a tribute to the couple, said their son, Cliff Fairbanks. He said his parents wanted to educate others and protect wildlife.

Chuck passed away in 2008 after a life of working with wood. He began carving duck decoys when he learned to whittle as a boy. He went on to make furniture pieces for the home and even small boats. After retiring in 1982, his focus was on carving wildlife from cedar or basswood.

Chuck and Mary frequently visited J.B. Sargeant Sr. Memorial Park (formerly Flint Creek Park), Dead River Park, Lettuce Lake Park, Medard Park and Picnic Island.

Chuck’s enjoyment of photography helped him document their visits. He used a telephoto lens to capture as much detail as possible of wildlife, primarily birds.

The couple followed John James Audubon’s measurements and colors to create life-like sculptures. Chuck carved for up to 40 hours on a single bird. Mary painted the carvings, taking as much or more time to replicate the coloring and bring the creatures to life.

Mary began painting when Cliff was a small child. She and her neighbor took classes at a south Tampa recreation center in the early 1950s. She used oil, acrylic and watercolor paints depending on the subject she was painting.

Daughter-in-law Linda Fairbanks said her favorite piece is a watercolor of two fish, which shows the depth of color and the detail Mary captured.

Cliff said his favorite piece is a bass he asked his dad to carve. The keepsake serves as a loving reminder of a fishing trip with his father when Cliff caught such a bass.

Chuck and Mary, married 50 years, were eco-minded before it was fashionable to be “green” and lived by example, said Linda.

After Chuck died, Mary spent more time with Cliff and his family. The birds needed a home.

Friends Bob and Joan Staehle knew about the collection and offered assistance in finding the birds a permanent home.

“We began writing letters to possible venues in Hillsborough County in January, sending them information and photos of the sculptures,” said Joan.

“The head ranger of Hillsborough County parks showed the most enthusiasm, so we worked to place the sculptures at Lettuce Lake Park,” she added. “That was a fortuitous decision, because it turned out that Chuck and Mary Fairbanks had enjoyed going to Lettuce Lake Park during their last years together.”

The carvings were cleaned and sealed to enhance their true colors. Plans were drawn for a new exhibit. Paints and supplies were purchased.

Park Ranger Steven Kennedy helped with the project. He built wooden shelves and a miniature dock.

Work was completed and the display area was sealed March 17. The dedication took place May 14.

The exhibit is divided into coastal and inland bird species. The background is painted to reflect the native habitats.

Linda said the exhibit extends her in-laws’ appreciation of wildlife.

Chuck and Mary created more than 70 carvings, and none were ever sold, Cliff said. They were created simply to be enjoyed.