HICKSON - From priceless pictures and paintings, to hand carved figurines - it’s a collection of pig art you won’t find anywhere else.
“My wife says enough, enough, no buying anymore.”
Tucked away in cupboards and display cases, is a massive collection of pig memorabilia - all collected by retired swine breeder and exporter Jim Donaldson.
“I don’t know if I counted them, but I would imagine likely two-to-three hundred,” said Jim.
As a swine genetics exporter, his career took him to more than 50 countries around the world. On his many trips, Jim always returned home with a pig souvenir from the country he visited.
“If I was in say China, I would make sure to buy a painting,” said Jim. “It was my livelihood so whenever I saw a beautiful piece of ceramics or whatever I would buy it.”
From China, Brazil or Russia, these priceless pig souvenirs are quite possibly the world’s most unique pig memorabilia collection.
“I have five pieces of pewter that I bought off a woman in the United States, it’s likely my favourite,” said Jim.
According to Jim his pig collection isn’t just a hobby, as each carving or painting is a reminder of his long and successful career in the pork industry.
“Pigs have been my life and have given me a great life. It’s been such a pleasure to have been a part of the pork industry and have met so many wonderful people.”
Jim’s passion for pigs is evident in this large collection, which spans across his entire basement. While he has no plans to add to the collection, he still maintains a strong desire promote the pork industry.
“Pork is such a wonderful food and it’s my favorite meat to eat, and I always tell people - do make sure to put pork on your fork!”
Watch the interview with Jim here on Ontario Pork News.
Source : Ontario Pork