Today we’d like to introduce you to John Kish.
Hi John, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated in 2011 with a horticulture degree and in 2013 with a musical theater degree in NYC, where my business concept began. Then, I launched the indoor plant shop, Somewhere That’s Green, in the fall of 2018. It grew naturally from pop-ups and markets, then to 800 sq ft, then to 1200 sq ft in the Old Mill District, and now to our current 4000 sq ft space in the Bend Central District. I added the theater space in 2022, making it the first professional theater space in Bend, pioneering performing arts, paying artists, and elevating the arts. We are the world’s only theatrical plant shop that I know of, and I am so proud of where we are today.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Absolutely not, haha! But growing naturally was one of the smartest decisions I’ve made. No bank loans, only sustainable growth and balance. I think my biggest struggle as been being a well-known figure in town. I can’t go on dates, go to the doctor, get groceries, etc. without people asking plant care questions or needling into my personal life. This comes with false accusations, assumptions, alienation, isolation, heartbreak, and more. I also wasn’t ready for the hardship that is people management. It’s definetly been the hardest aspect of being a business owner, and I wasn’t ready to lose trust in humans so quickly. When money is involved, people will do anything and break any trust. Owning a business shows you the worst of humanity, but also sometimes-the best. I’ve met amazing humans and made outstanding connections within the community. Definetly a love-hate relationship. Not for the faint of heart.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Well, I’m a horticulturist and a performing artist. I act, sing, dance, direct, produce, design, sew, build, and paint! As for plants, I manicure experiences, show, organize, throw ceramics, design interiors and educate.
I’m most proud of bringing the queer community into the spotlight through art, drag, acceptance, and education. Also, pioneering professional performing arts when many said I couldn’t do it was a huge accomplishment.
I think I just have the mindset that, as long as it’s not hurting others, the sky is the limit. I don’t limit myself with fears or what-ifs; I just take action and test it out. Bravery. I utilize my privlidge to bring experience to others, and create accessibility to those in Central Oregon.
What’s next?
Unsure at the moment. I’m pausing the theater after 5 years to reassess. My life has been a whirlwind of changes this past year, and I need a moment to regroup. The plant shop is going strong, and I’m taking some actions to fortify it as well, as our country is hit with massive inflation. I been craving to throw more ceramics, sew more outfits, and keep nuturing my artist self.
Contact Info:
- Website: TheGreenhouseCabaret.com, Somewheregreen.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/Somewhere_Thats_Green, instagram.com/thegreenhousecabaret, instagram.com/thefertileliza
