SUN CITY – When most people see a toothpick, its obvious uses come to mind. But when Cesar Vega of Neighborhood 31 looks at a toothpick, he sees the Eifel Tower, a Model T Ford, a stagecoach, or perhaps a working trolley car, among many other wonders of mechanics and structure.
At 18 while living in Lima, Peru, Cesar Vega of N.31 discovered his talent for creating scaled models from toothpicks. Today, his work is seen all over the world. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
It’s meticulous work, but Cesar Vega’s perfectly scaled and oftentimes operable toothpick models are nothing short of incredible.
After Vega has chosen his next piece, he starts with research, using books, photos, and the Internet, to draft his design. He then sketches the structure to scale. After which, construction begins. Working regularly, the average model takes Vega about two to four weeks to finish, depending on scale. To create these works, Vega prefers Diamond brand toothpicks but also employs thin wooden rods and tongue depressors when needed, which isn’t very often.
Vega said his toothpick models are initially very delicate during construction; when special care is needed to bend the thin wood. However, he said, the completed model is durable and solid and “not easily breakable.”
Vega adds further detail to his models by making them operable: wheels that turn, hoods that pop up, convertible tops that fold back, lights that work, doors that open, elevators that move, and he sometimes adds little stick people (which he makes) to their interiors or assembles engines for that added touch.
Vega displays his toothpick art. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
Vega started experimenting with toothpick art when he was 18 while growing up in Lima, Peru. He said that his first attempts were a bit crooked and disproportionate but that he soon mastered his technique, not to the surprise of his family and teachers, who recognized Vega’s artistic abilities and helped foster them from a young age.
(Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
Beyond toothpick art, Vega also works with sculptures, ceramics, paints (both oil and acrylic), and pen and ink, among a few other mediums. Because of his artistic ability, Vega has earned in some cases international notoriety. In the mid-60s, several pieces of Vega’s work, including his toothpick art, was displayed at the Pan-American Art Festival held at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. And, recognized by the name “Inca De La Vega,” many of Vega’s paintings are on display in Brazil, Mexico, China, Sweden, Florida, and California.
Vega stands before an oil paint- ing that was on display at the Museum of Science and Industry. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
Vega’s artistic ability aided him in his professional life after coming to America in 1964, when he first worked in computer programming and then in electrical mechanical design.
Vega said that when he came to America (with only $10 in his pocket), he didn’t want to waste his time or squander the many available opportunities this country offered. During his life, both in Peru and now in America, his drive and determination helped him overcome obstacles like language barriers and helped him achieve several degrees, certificates, accolades, and citations. Vega most recently earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2002. He graduated with a 4.25 GPA at age 62.
Miniature three-dimensional wood carvings Vega whittled with hand- made tools out of kitchen matchsticks. (Photo by Chris LaPelusa/Sun Day)
“Like most immigrants, I had a difficult time adjusting,” said Vega, “but my positive attitude and drive helped me to surpass the problems so that I could continue to excel in my life.”
In 1972, Vega earned his United States citizenship. During his years in the United States, Vega has dedicated his efforts on a humanitarian effort just as much as on a professional and artistic field. He is a member of the Lion’s Club, a fourth degree member of the Knights of the Columbus, an honorary member of the Lion’s Club in Lima, Peru, a Eucheristic minister for Saint Mary’s Church in Huntley, and carries an Ensign rank in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, through which he dedicated service to various programs like the American Youth Program. Most recently, Vega created replicas of famous Spanish balconies that were auctioned at a Hearts Afire Mission Organization fundraiser to support Haiti relief efforts.
Now retired, Vega continues to explore his artistic talents and works as an associate people greeter at Wal-mart in Huntley. He lives with his wife, Gladys, of 42 years and has two sons, Cesar and Fernando.
“My family has always supported me with love,” Vega said, “and helped me to reach my goals.”
Some of Cesar Vega’s art can next be viewed at the Sun City Art & Craft Fair on Sunday, October 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
