Pears, by Angela Hughes Zokan
What's On Your Plate?
A series by local South Carolina Artist, Angela Hughes Zokan
Pears
12"X12", Acrylic on Canvas
The last of the “What’s on your plate?” series! This series has been cathartic for me. Reminiscing all of the little memories of family, friends and experiences that I hold so close to my heart. These little pears are no different. (Although, if you are an animal lover you may want to keep scrolling...)
My grandfather was also a little bit of a farmer. He had a couple of acres of land that he planted every year. On his property he also had scuppernong grape vines, fig trees and at least two pear trees. Those pear trees were huge and in the late summer they would be heavy with pears. What drove my grandfather the most crazy was when he would see the squirrels eating his pears. Worst of all the squirrels would take just a couple of bites out of them and then throw them to the earth. This infuriated him. Just call him Mr. MacGregor, because before you knew it he had an electric fence all the way around both trees and those little squirrels did not stand a chance. They would start to climb the fence and immediately be shocked back a couple of feet before running away. Watching this from the screened in porch was the best entertainment, because you know my brother and I would not have any control over the television while Grandmama was watching her “stories.” So I end this little series with a laugh (hopefully) and a piece that exudes the colors of the late summer sun.
Those beautiful ochre linens and plates are also available at McIntosh Antiques and Gifts.
About the Collection: A Note From the Artist
The most precious memories and conversations happen around the table with a meal, a melted popsicle or a couple of slices of leftover bacon in the toaster oven. Hey, when you know you know! These meals do not have to be over the top (although I do love a gourmet dish), but oftentimes are the simplest, with the most significance.
I find that more and more I draw connections to people through different foods, flavors, and scents. When I prepare a meal, snack, or even beverage for myself or my family I am reminded of who I shared these with in the past. These memories have become more and more precious as people I have loved, respected, and cherished have moved on…or even started to grow up.
This series of paintings may seem simple, or reminiscent of pop art ideals; but, for me, they focus more on connections. Connections to people, cultures, seasons, experiences and keeping this in the forefront of my thoughts. This “plate” series will be released every Friday for the next couple of months through McIntosh Cottage Antiques.
Part 4: Summer's Bounty
This is the final installation of the “What’s on your plate?” series… for now. These plates are filled with local fruits and vegetables arranged on the most beautiful McIntosh Antiques and Gifts plates and fabrics. These next pieces will incorporate the best that summer has to offer and what you will find on my plates most nights of summer.