The Pansy Garden is a space for loitering.

Tended by Rufus Jupiter of Lathyrus Flora, The Pansy Garden is an ever- evolving art garden and performance environment that exists for public enjoyment. Inspired by the song ‘81 by Joanna Newsom and a legacy of garden parties within the local queer community, The Pansy Garden is a place not only for events, but also for respite, rest, storytelling, organizing, informal gathering, and intergenerational connection. 

Located behind the pottery studio and office building, the garden features the beginnings of a living willow structure surrounded by flower beds. A wide variety of pansies and violas, sweet peas, hyssop, dahlias, peonies, and gayfeather are among the flowers and herbs inhabiting the space. Beyond the garden structure you will find apple, plum, and hazelnut trees, a majestic silver maple, native and nonnative (non- invasive) perennials, and- in the front yard- a community vegetable patch alongside our two beautiful, massive white pines. 

The garden itself tells a story. Even in its beginning stages, many of the plants have been sourced from or generously donated by local queer growers. As it evolves, the garden will become a living archive of these plants and their origins.

The Pansy Garden aspires to be a fully ADA- accessible outdoor gathering and event space. We are a sober (no alcohol) venue, and our events are all ages. Like R.A.C.K., The Pansy Garden is a space that centers queer & trans experience. We welcome feedback or suggestions on how to help this space better meet the needs of those who use it- please reach out if you have an idea!