Pansy, Kansas City's first marketplace focused on the LGBTQIA+ community, has launched its online store with custom artisan Pansy merchandise

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 6, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Pansy is Kansas City's first and only marketplace, and soon to be community center and for-rent art studios, focusing on the LGBTQIA+ community. Pansy officially launched its online store, which offers Pansy-branded and select merchandise designed by LGBTQIA+ artists from around the world.

The first featured collaboration is from Kansas City artist, muralist, and designer Stephanie Bloss. That collection is available now online for a limited time.

The primary goal of Pansy's online store is to raise funds for a permanent location. The eventual brick-and-mortar store will offer a variety of goods created by LGBTQIA+ makers and artists.

"It's been really great working with so many LGBTQIA+ artists and seeing their interpretation," says Elliot Wiersgalla, owner and founder of Pansy. "The only instructions I have given is the artwork needs to include a Pansy. So far, I'm in love all the submissions I have received."

Kansas City has a focus on small business and local makers, however, there is currently no effort to highlight the LGBTQIA+ community or the work of LGBTQIA+ artists and makers. Pansy will give these artists a safe and affordable space to make and sell their work.

In addition to a marketplace and art studios, Pansy will offer a community center where there will be events focused on LGBTQIA+ topics. Events will include lectures, classes, and mindfulness exercises, among other things.

Pansy is currently crowdfunding to secure a location through a fiscal sponsorship with Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. To contribute, please go to fundraising.fracturedatlas.org/pansy.

PANSY IS KANSAS CITY'S FIRST LGBTQIA+ MARKETPLACE, COMMUNITY CENTER, AND ART STUDIOS.

Pansy is encouraging artists from around the world to reach out if they are interested in collaborating on a featured collection. Interested artists and makers should visit http://www.pansykc.com to get in contact. For more information on Pansy, contact Elliot Wiersgalla at 715-533-0716, or email at [email protected].

SOURCE Pansy