PORTLAND, OR — Following the success of its recently launched Community Needs Assessment, the Portland Queer Arts Foundation (PQA) is introducing a series of Community Listening Sessions — in-person conversations designed to amplify the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ artists in Portland.
The one-hour sessions, taking place throughout the fall, will bring together small groups of artists, performers, and creatives from across disciplines to share insights about their work, challenges, and hopes for the future of queer art in the region. All participants will receive compensation for their time and contributions.
“Listening is one of the most powerful acts of community-building,” said John T. Perry (he/him), Co-Founder and President of Portland Queer Arts Foundation. “These sessions give artists the space to speak honestly about what they need, and give us the responsibility to listen with care and intention.”
The Community Listening Sessions are part of PQA’s broader Community Needs Assessment initiative, which launched earlier this year with a citywide survey for LGBTQ+ artists. Together, these efforts will help guide how the Foundation structures future programs, funding opportunities, and creative collaborations.
“Queer artists, we’re often asked to perform or produce — but rarely to simply speak,” added Perry. “These sessions are about creating the same kind of brave, affirming space offstage that we strive to create onstage with shows like our annual Queer Arts Spectacular.”
The Listening Sessions are open to both emerging and established queer artists working in any medium, including music, dance, spoken word, drag, theater, visual, and material arts. Each conversation will be guided by PQA’s facilitation team, focusing on visibility, access, and creative sustainability.
Sessions will take place at accessible venues across Portland, with dates and registration available at portlandqueerarts.foundation/listening.
About Portland Queer Arts Foundation
Portland Queer Arts Foundation uplifts and celebrates Portland’s queer artists, advocates, and allies by creating inclusive, joyful, and interdisciplinary arts experiences. From live performances and artist grants to community events, the organization cultivates space for bold expression, collaborative storytelling, and lasting cultural impact. Portland Queer Arts Foundation is based in Portland, Oregon, and committed to amplifying underrepresented voices across Portland and the surrounding metropolitan area.