Patsy Matthews: Cultivating community, crafting culture at The Lexington Farmers Market
Patsy and Zane sell herbs and jewelry at The Lexington Famers Market.
{Photos Thomas Martin/Davidson Local}
At the heart of our community, local neighbors Patsy and Zane Matthews, a dynamic husband-and-wife team, bring a unique blend of cultural artistry and natural cultivation to the Lexington Farmers Market. Their stall, “Motherland Inspirations,” is more than just a vendor space; it’s a vibrant celebration of heritage, creativity, and organic living.
Patsy Matthews, an artist at heart, possesses a deep passion for her garden, considering it a sanctuary and a source of inspiration. Her artistic sensibilities seamlessly intertwine with her gardening practices, resulting in a beautiful display of both handcrafted jewelry and flourishing plant life. Zane Matthews works alongside Patsy, and together they form a formidable team. Their commitment to organic practices is unwavering; they resolutely avoid chemicals, fungicides, and pesticides. Every vegetable they grow is nurtured naturally, ensuring that their produce is as pure and wholesome as possible.
The journey of Patsy and Zane Matthews at the Lexington Farmers Market began in November 2016. Over the years, they have cultivated more than just plants; they have nurtured relationships within the community. Patsy often expresses that what she loves most about the market is the interaction with customers. She cherishes the opportunity to make new friends and enjoys sharing her knowledge about her products, whether it’s the intricacies of her African-inspired jewelry or the benefits of her organically grown vegetables.
The quality of their offerings speaks for itself. Regular customers frequently return, expressing their satisfaction with the vibrant plants and flavorful produce. Their testimonials highlight the success of Patsy’s gardening methods, which involve cultivating everything outdoors, under the natural sunlight, rather than in a greenhouse. This approach allows the plants to thrive in their natural environment, resulting in robust growth and bountiful harvests.
“Motherland Inspirations” goes beyond standard produce offerings. Patsy grows medicinal herbs, catering to those seeking natural remedies. She emphasizes the organic nature of her soil, underscoring her dedication to purity and natural growth. Her passion for African-inspired jewelry is evident in every piece she creates. This interest blossomed into a hobby over time, evolving from personal adornment to a cherished artistic expression.
Each jewelry item from “Motherland Inspirations” is handcrafted with meticulous care and imbued with deep symbolism. Patsy ensures that every piece comes with a card explaining its specific meaning, allowing customers to connect with the cultural significance behind each design. This adds another layer of value to her work, transforming each item into a meaningful piece with a story to tell.
Patsy holds a special place in her heart for her repeat customers, finding immense joy and fulfillment in their continued support. She believes their presence makes her time at the market worthwhile. She also appreciates the overall atmosphere, describing the market as a wonderful place filled with down-to-earth people, including fellow vendors and the market’s management. This sense of community and camaraderie enhances the experience for everyone involved.
Patsy is particularly keen to convey that she treats her handcrafted jewelry, plants, and vegetables with the same care and consideration as if she were going to use them herself. This personal touch reflects her integrity and genuine love for her work. She firmly believes that nearly everything offered at the farmers market surpasses the quality of produce found in larger chain stores like Food Lion and Walmart.
The Lexington Farmers Market, where Patsy and Zane Matthews showcase their unique offerings, is open every Saturday from 8 AM to 12 PM. It's a place where the community gathers to support local vendors, experience the richness of handcrafted goods, and enjoy the flavors of fresh, organically grown produce.
