Why is it that we learn to honor the hard work of our fathers later in life? I can attest to the strength of Marian’s commitment to helping farmers. Perhaps, in memory of her own father, she and her husband Allan, are donating time and service to Farms of Tuolumne County. Thanks, Marian & Allan, for all you do. AND I’m so grateful that you have given acknowledgment to our dedicated farming community.
Central Sierra Arts Council is honored to work with our local agricultural community. That’s what this festival is all about! Bringing the best of our community–its creative impulse and its industrious spirit–together to not only celebrate, but spread awareness of how good our life in Tuolumne County is!
When we started the Foothill Farmlands ARTS Festival, quite a few people asked, “Why art and agriculture? What’s the connection?” My jaw just about dropped! I wanted to scream, but being the polite, well-bred, “good girl” that I am, I simply smiled. ”I suppose I can understand your confusion, but just think…” From there I lit into a LITANY of connections. From Van Gogh’s golden haystacks to Bruegel’s markets and fairs, to sacred cow sculptures of the ancient world to the painted cows of Chicago’s boulevards (that famous cattle town–the end of the line for lots of cows; the beginning for lots of hamburgers).
Both are as basic as it gets! We express that which is MOST important to us. The sustenance that we glean from our fields fills not only our bellies, but our hearts and minds, too. Then we are “called” to express their image.
One of my favorite photographs is one of hard-working hands. I don’t remember the photographer (maybe one of you does), but this black and white photo clearly tells the story of a hard working man, who has tilled and planted to satisfy our hunger. As we gaze at the photo, we can stop, admire the art piece, and remember the struggle, the diligence of those who bring food from farms to tables.
Please keep telling us about your farm heroes. What a rich testament this could be to the rugged folks who feed us, nurture us!
1 response so far ↓
Sandy Gordon // Jul 11, 2008 at 10:57 am
The Visitors Bureau whole-heartedly agrees with your words of appreciation for Allan & Marian Zimmerly’s contributions to our Tuolumne County Farms and Ranches. Allan & Marian are a great help to the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau and are always there to help us promote our local agriculture.
Each year they volunteer to staff a shift at the Tuolumne County exhibit at the California State Fair which always showcases our local agriculture. Allan recently volunteered as the driver-host for Outdoor Writers Association of California members’ agritour during their recent 3-day conference in Sonora. Outdoor Agritour Writer Debbie Stock stated “Allan was the best agritour guide I have ever toured with.” Kudos to the Zimmerlys!
Leave a Comment