Memphis artist Eso Tolson stays busy. Maybe you saw his “Spectacular Vernacular” exhibition, or maybe you have a T-shirt with his artfully rendered words splashed across the front. Maybe you saw his “Rediscover Memphis” cover for the 2021 edition of Memphis magazine’s annual “City Guide” issue.
But, for all that, Tolson also understands the value of rest and relaxation. Much of his art — like his “Less Grind. More Chill!” print — questions the grind ethos. Part of embracing your inner “chill” means creating an environment that soothes and inspires. For Tolson, one part of that process is, of course, art. Another part of the equation, says the self-proclaimed plant zaddy, is caring for houseplants. So I spoke with Memphis’ own Cool Urban Hippie to ask about what plant care means to him.
Memphis Flyer: First, I’ve seen you describe yourself as a “plant zaddy” — care to define that for our readers?
Eso Tolson: [Laughs] Yeah! So, a “Plant Zaddy” is someone who is very intentional about plants in their spaces. It’s not just about having a plant or two randomly in a room. It’s something that is highly curated into your space/life. It’s about style. It’s about a level of swag and expression. I’m a plant parent, but I make it look really good.
When did you get into plants?
I’ve always been fond of plants and flowers since I was a kid. I’d pick flowers and give them to my mom and people I liked and loved. I grew up with plants in the home. So, I was comfortable with the idea of caring for plants. With that being said, I didn’t get my own houseplant until four or five years ago.
What’s your favorite houseplant?
I have two, actually! They’re both golden pothos. One’s named “Chance.” The other’s name is “Man man.” They are quite beautiful. Big, full, and pretty! I’ve propagated clippings from both and created other plants. I’d like to think we’ve created a great relationship with each other.
Is there a plant you just won’t have in your house? Or are there any plant horror stories you’re willing to share?
An arrowhead plant. I tried them. For some reason, we don’t really get along. And I’m not really sure why. [Laughs] I think they are beautiful. I’ve had two in the past. I don’t have either now. Also, no plants that look like spikey blades of grass. Xanadu, my cat, will attack it every time. I had to give one away to my neighbor to keep the peace. I wasn’t gonna let a plant mess up my relationship with my cat.
I know the feeling! I have cats and houseplants. Right now it’s easy to keep them separated, but I worry about what will happen when the plants grow too big to live on the mantle. Do you have any tips for keeping pets away from your plants?
I don’t actually. [Laughs] Xanadu lives life right along with the plants. She’ll nudge a few, maybe rub up against them, but she doesn’t really bother them much. She has chewed on some before, but I feel like she was getting back at me for something. Like, telling her that she couldn’t do something that she wanted to do. How dare I? But, maybe see how they do with one plant being in their reach. Then, you can make your best judgment from there.
Being a plant person isn’t always represented as a masculine hobby, I suppose because of the nurturing aspect. I think that’s a ridiculous stereotype, but I’m interested in your thoughts on it.
Yeah, I think it’s ridiculous too. Society really be messing things up! [Laughs] There’s nothing wrong with people who identify as men caring for plants. The issue is being a man, as it relates to being “masculine,” typically means “not showing emotion,” “not being caring,” or “not being soft.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Besides, all people are comprised of the masculine and the feminine. So, we shouldn’t allow masculinity or femininity to interfere with our humanity. So, fellas: Get a plant. Love on it. And watch y’all grow.
I think it’s important to create a home environment that feels safe and nurturing. How do you do that for yourself?
Absolutely. Interior Designer Ilse Crawford states that we spend about 87 percent of our lives inside buildings. So, how they are designed really affects how we feel and how we behave. As I create that for myself, I make sure the space feels creative, inviting, comfortable, stimulating, and peaceful. I have wall art and a “mini library” full of books about beautiful things to keep me inspired. Thankful to have southern-facing windows to bring in natural light for both me and my plants. Lamps, candles, and music help to set the necessary mood. Declutter and organize the rooms to keep the right energy moving in the space.
Has being a plant person influenced your art-making ethos at all?
I’m not sure. It may actually be the other way around. I can say being a plant person has helped me become a better human. (Which in turn kinda makes me a better artist). So, I guess, yeah.
Do you have any tips for anyone who might be interested in getting their first houseplant?
Yes. Find the right plant for you. A lot of us think we’re not good at taking care of plants because of a bad experience with the plant or because they seem intimidating. There’s a plant for everyone. Snake plants and pothos plants are great to start with. Then, over time, you may find other plants that you can care for with similar traits. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because you’re going to.
Is there anything else you would like readers to know?
Take time to create a space in your home that feels really good. A space that is just as relaxing as it is stimulating. A space that feeds your creativity and your senses. A space that feels warm and energetic. Plants are a great way to add life and vitality to your space. Even if it takes some time to put it together, your energy and life will be transformed by the process. It’s worth it.
