TL;DR
- Pup and Tiger is a queer-owned art space and café in Canterbury, built to celebrate creativity, connection, and community — with a special focus on LGBTQ+ and under-represented artists.
- More than just coffee and art, we’re creating a true community hub, hosting exhibitions, live music, workshops, and talks that inspire, include, and uplift.
- We need your support to open our doors! Help us fund renovations, gallery lighting, and essential equipment — and bring this vibrant, much-needed space to life.
Join us — and be part of building something powerful, creative, and proudly inclusive.
------------------------------------------
Pup and Tiger is more than just a café, it’s a dream brought to life by two passionate creators, Jared Pappas-Kelley and Ash Sweeney. As proud members of the LGBTQ+ community, we’ve always envisioned creating a space that not only exhibits exciting contemporary art and serves incredible coffee but also serves a larger purpose: bringing people together. Our mission is to foster a community where connection, creativity, and inclusivity can thrive.
With years of experience creating and operating successful contemporary art spaces internationally, we understand just how vital physical, inclusive spaces are, especially in today’s world. As society faces increasing division and digital isolation, the need for welcoming, in-person environments where people can gather, express themselves, and connect has never been more necessary. Pup and Tiger is our response to that need: a heartfelt, tangible space rooted in art, community, and care.
The Vision
The idea for Pup and Tiger was born from our shared desire to create a place that welcomes people from all walks of life. It’s a space where individuality is celebrated, where everyone feels at home, and where art, conversation, and good coffee come together. We’re especially committed to providing a platform for under-represented voices, including LGBTQ+ artists and creators from marginalised communities. By highlighting their work, we aim to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse arts scene while supporting these creators in meaningful ways. There is no physical space like it in Canterbury, and a place that is necessary today more than ever.
The Art
At Pup and Tiger, art is at the heart of what we do. We’ll showcase and sell art in all mediums, from paintings and prints to sculpture and photography, featuring both established and emerging LGBTQ+ artists. Alongside the artwork, we’ll offer a cozy, welcoming space to enjoy delicious food and drinks, all while fostering connections between our customers. We believe that coffee is more than just a drink. It’s a reason to gather, to pause, and to have meaningful conversations.
The Community
In addition to being an art space and café, Pup and Tiger will serve as a community hub. We plan to host events, workshops, and social gatherings that encourage creativity, self-expression, and inclusivity. Our events will range from art exhibitions and poetry nights to open-mic sessions, community discussions, and live music sessions by local music artists. These performances will provide a platform for emerging talent and bring the community together in the most vibrant way possible.
The Difference
By collaborating with LGBTQ+ charities and foundations, we’ll host talks that raise awareness of important social issues, such as mental health, rights for marginalised groups, and the ongoing fight for equality. We’re committed to creating a space where voices are heard, and where community building is at the forefront.
We’re dedicated to creating a safe space, one that provides a platform for people to learn, grow, and feel heard. We also recognise the importance of giving back, which is why we’ll partner with local LGBTQ+ charities to raise funds and provide support for causes that matter. Whether it’s through donation drives, charity events, or collaborations with advocacy groups, we want Pup and Tiger to be a place where we can all make a positive difference in the community.
The Support
To make all this happen, we need your support. By contributing to our crowdfunding campaign, you’ll help us bring our vision to life. The funds we raise will go toward a match funded loan from Kent County Council, which means we can bring this physical space to life. Some of the things we will be able to do with this funding are:
- Gallery lighting and fixtures for exhibition space
- Renovation and design of the café space
- Buy high-quality equipment like a commercial coffee machine, fridges, and an oven
We’ll also use the money to create an atmosphere that’s warm, welcoming, and reflective of the values we hold dear.
With your support, we can turn Pup and Tiger into more than just a café, we can build a thriving creative community where art, culture, live music, and inclusivity reign. Our vision is a place where everyone feels like they belong, a space where relationships are built over cups of coffee and where artistic expression is celebrated.
The Family
Join us on this exciting journey, and together we’ll create something special. We are looking to open our doors by September 2025 and we hope you'll join us! Pup and Tiger isn’t just about coffee, it’s about connection, creativity, and community. Let’s make it happen.