Poison Garden: Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is an easy plant to dislike. It spreads eagerly and quickly, growing into an impassable wall wherever it decides. Some of our bodies are so averse to this plant that our skin breaks out in painful blisters at the lightest touch. Those of us that have no reaction are not safe from it either - immunity is often short lived. 

Outdoor enthusiasts often find poison ivy to be one of their first encounters with poison plants. We learn to identify this one before all others for our safety. But it’s not just contained to remote hiking trails; this plant can be found prolifically growing in cities, suburban gardens, and expansive rural sites. Wherever we’ve left our mark as humans, this plant appears.

Exploring this complex and often unwanted relationship between humans and poison ivy is at the heart of issue 3. But we also go beyond the human - after all, this plant does serve an important ecological purpose for the other beings on this planet. 

Our contributors tackle all facets of this plant. Thayer Sindelar weaves its symbolism into papercut art. Cheyenne Jolene Yates creates an overview guide of poison ivy, including identification, habitat, and how to interact with it. Chelsea Biagioli embroiders its ecological relationships. Olivia Gochnaur explains the role of urushiol in poison ivy and in other plants. 

Tristan Heinen gives an account from a restoration practitioner’s point of view. Nathanael Welch likens the identification of poison ivy to the process of identifying and locating yourself. Jen Dennis offers a way to connect with the plant (without touching) through craft, even offering patterns to get you started. Marissa Byers writes about the experience of having - and trying to heal - a poison ivy rash.

Kayla Woodward discusses the importance of perspective. Emily Davis showcases the plant as illuminating art. Sarah Zanchetta shares about her process of collecting and making art with the plant, including stunning photos of her final piece. Caroline Finnegan interprets poison ivy’s representation through ceramics. Editors for this issue are Hazel Andrews Holmes, Maria Seda-Reeder, and Mila Roeder.

Will release in September 2026. 

Also available through Kickstarter for 25% off retail price until April 15th.