McLeod Plantation Gift Shop items

Framed images of selected works will soon be available in the McLeod Plantation gift shop, a venue that holds a significant place in the discourse surrounding the history of slavery in the American South. My disdain for southern plantations is well known and documented; however, I appreciate McLeod for a variety of reasons, particularly because many tourists express their discontent with it. Why is that the case? They dare to tell the unvarnished truth about the history of the enslaved individuals in the Carolinas, confronting the uncomfortable realities that many other plantations gloss over. Importantly, they do not host weddings, which often romanticize the plantation experience, overshadowing the painful history that lies beneath the surface. This blurb, taken from a Trip Advisor review, illustrates the point effectively: 'The contrasting, unflinching, real narrative that is presented at this site is far different from any other plantation that I have visited. I hesitated to even visit another plantation because I find it somewhat disturbing, the focus on the wealth, farming, big house, rather than the harsh realities of slavery. I read about this location on Charleston County Parks website, and it did not disappoint. The truth could be hard to listen to at times, but so important to hear.'

And then, there's this review, which provides a different perspective and is why I love McLeod: 'We were hoping to get a glimpse of Charleston plantation life in the 1800's. We were instead treated to a very radical lecture of the evils of slavery (duh!?!) while walking the grounds. I'm guessing that the phrase "white supremacy" was used 25 times, as well as the word terrorism (really?). It is a small, relatively unimpressive house with access limited to main floor. Pick any one of the other 4 or 5 Charleston area plantations and you will get a much more insightful and enjoyable glimpse into the past.'

See what I mean? The contrasting viewpoints underscore the complexities of how plantation history is interpreted and presented. Some visitors appreciate the raw honesty and educational approach of McLeod, while others prefer a more sanitized version of history that focuses on the grandeur and aesthetics of plantation life. This dichotomy highlights the ongoing struggle to reconcile the romanticized narratives of the past with the harsh realities that many would rather forget.

So, five of my images—Plantation Tree of Life, Aaron and Moses, Out of Bondage II - the Domestics, Out of Bondage - Richard Toler, and RainBrow Row—will soon be available in their gift shop in sizes of 9" x 12” and 12” x 12“. I believe they will retail for around $45, which I consider a bargain for artwork that provokes thought and reflection on such an important topic. I may also offer them on my website at the same price for those who visited McLeod and regretted not purchasing one, or for those who would like to give one as a meaningful gift. Each piece serves not only as an artistic expression but also as a conversation starter, encouraging viewers to engage with the history and legacy of slavery in a way that is both respectful and enlightening.

Plantation Tree of Life (12” x 12”), Out of Bondage II - The Domestics (9” x 12”), and, Aaron and Moses”(9” x 12”)