Shantigar Foundation

The Shantigar Foundation, nestled on a historic farm in Rowe, MA, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the integration of creativity, meditation, and nature. Founded by playwright Jean-Claude van Itallie and named "Peaceful Home" by his teacher Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, Shantigar has evolved into a vibrant center hosting workshops, performances, and ecological initiatives. Its mission is to foster personal and collective transformation through artistic expression, contemplative practice, and environmental stewardship. Over the decades, Shantigar has welcomed a diverse array of artists, spiritual teachers, and healers, all contributing to its legacy as a place of renewal and inspiration. Before his passing in 2021, Jean-Claude worked with the Franklin Land Trust to preserve more than 200 acres of the farm. Along with five other families, the Warner Hill Conservation Area offers several miles of public trails across 650 acres.