Hamish Powell x Stonewall

Hamish Powell: Artist, florist, poet

Flowers have always been a language for me, and pansies were the quiet friends cheering me on from mum's winter flower beds. To then grow up and be called a pansy out of spite, and not sweetness, was always a bit confusing to me. What joy to be a pansy!! Wearing this shirt, saying PANSY! on your chest and with your chest, is to reclaim our softness as a badge of pride. This collaboration with Stonewall is about celebrating queerness in full bloom, unapologetically visible and joyfully defiant." – Hamish Powell

However, the term has been reclaimed by some in the queer community as a symbol of pride and resistance against homophobia. Today, pansies are often seen as a symbol of beauty and delicacy, reflecting a broader queer identity.  

At Stonewall, we understand the profound impact language can have, and the generational trauma that can linger in the words we use. Much like the reclamation of the word “queer,” taking ownership of language that was once used to harm can be an act of empowerment and a way to reshape the narrative. While Stonewall does not endorse the use of derogatory language, Hamish’s story of beauty, power and pride speaks directly to our mission of creating safe spaces where LGBTQ+ people can express themselves freely and authentically. 

Buy your t-shirt and wear it with pride. Share your photo and tag both Hamish and Stonewall to celebrate queerness in full bloom, unapologetically visible and joyfully defiant.

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