The Grove stands tall—literally and figuratively—as one of the nine neighborhoods with its own dedicated stage. For 2025, something truly wild is taking root here, and it’s growing fast. Welcome to the Fractal Forest: a new immersive experiment in sound, structure, and connection.
Tucked deep within a dramatic stand of Douglas Firs, the Fractal Forest isn’t just a stage—it’s a living installation. Designed by Scott Edwards Architecture in collaboration with the Home Building Foundation and Bremik Construction, this bold new space blends the artistry of a performance venue with the soul of a sculpture. Its form draws from the intricate patterns of nature: fern spirals, tree branches, and snowflake geometry—all repeating, infinite, and alive. Interlocking modular frames rise organically from the forest floor, their delicate tendrils catching the light, shifting with the breeze, and dancing to the rhythm of the music.
The Fractal Forest is more than just beautiful—it’s built with intention. Every element is modular and recyclable, designed to serve a second life long after the festival ends. Once the weekend wraps, its materials will be repurposed to support local shelters, extending its impact into communities across Portland. This structure is a manifestation of Pickathon’s ethos: blending innovation, sustainability, and thoughtful design into a single, transformative experience.
But what truly gives the Fractal Forest its heartbeat is the people behind it. Through a partnership with the Building to Scale pre-apprenticeship program, young builders from across Portland have helped bring this vision to life. As they gain hands-on experience and learn valuable construction skills, they’re shaping more than just a space—they’re shaping their futures.
In the weeks ahead, you’ll see The Grove transform as this visionary installation comes to life. When you step into the Fractal Forest this August, you’ll enter a space where design, purpose, and performance converge—a place that feels as though it was always meant to be. Prepare to be transported.
