A little farm, a bigger dream: Where art meets agriculture
We visited Ramona Street Art Farm, where rows of vegetables share space with poetry readings, concerts, and conversations between neighbors. What began as the dream of a small urban farm has quietly grown into something larger: a place where tending the land and nurturing community have become one and the same. We sat down with Amy and Brandon Conway to talk about where it all began, what has surprised them most along the way, and why opening their gates to others has always been part of the vision.
What was your original dream for Ramona Street Art Farm?
Our original dream was to buy a little bit of land, start a little farm, and host art events and residencies - and to share that space with our friends and community.
What has surprised you most since opening it to the community?
I think one surprising thing about opening our space to the community has been just how much joy a garden can bring to people. Sometimes the farm can feel like a lot of work to us and we forget our original, joyful dream. But even people who may not be excited about gardening enjoy getting outdoors and away from the humdrum of modern life. Strangers open up and ask questions and want to talk about their own dreams whether gardening-related or not.
What do you hope people feel when they spend time here?
I think that’s what we want for people when they visit: an opportunity to connect with a child-like curiosity for the plants, and the ducks, and everything else on a small urban farm - as well as the rare chance to share in the experience of an intimate art performance with friends, neighbors and strangers.
Since 2020, Amy and Brandon have transformed a half-acre East Portland property into a thriving family run, no dig farm rooted in soil health, water conservation, and responsible growing practices. Alongside fresh produce and free-range duck eggs, the farm has become a home for concerts, readings, performances, and community gatherings. Their next event takes place on August 15, celebrating Claudia Savage's book First You Just Destroy the World with an evening of readings, music, and family recipes.
Learn more and join them at Ramona Street Art Farm:
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