Seismic Shift is a new artist commissioning program dedicated to supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Latine, Pacific Islander, Asian, and Arab) artists in creating and presenting transformative works in San Francisco.
Homed at the Geneva Powerhouse in District 11, a culturally rich neighborhood geographically distanced from tech and tourist dollars and other artistic venues, the historic building is a symbol of community strength following its restoration after being damaged in the Loma Prieta Earthquake in 1989. This new program honors our city’s cultural inheritances and amplifies the potency of community-driven artistry.
Upcoming Event: The Journey
Community Engagement Events
The community engagement activities of may we heal? are designed to foster connection, provide education, and offer healing-centered experiences for BIPOC individuals and communities in the Bay Area. These events intentionally bring together participants of various ages, professions, and creative backgrounds, creating safe spaces to reflect, heal, and grow through art.
The Practice
BIPOC Led Dance Classes
12:30 - 2PM | April 12, 26, May 10
The Bridge
BIPOC Led Dance and Architecture Panel Discussion
6 - 8PM | May 6
Introducing the Artist in Residence: Dazaun Soleyn | dazaun.dance
Photo credit: Robbie Sweeny
"may we heal?" is a poignant performance piece delving into the intricate journey of healing a body burdened by unprocessed generational trauma. Set to premiere at the Geneva Powerhouse in May of 2025, this captivating work showcases the artistry of five Bay Area artists: three movement artists and two live accompanists. Incorporating elements of dance, song, spoken word, and architecture, the project aims to embody a deeply human experience, inviting audiences to connect from an open-hearted space.
Central to the performance are five architectural objects crafted from repurposed materials. These objects are dynamically rearranged throughout the show, framing the performers' monologues and movements and altering the space's relational dynamics. Through this innovative approach, "may we heal?" promises to be a transformative experience, engaging viewers in a profound exploration of healing and resilience.
What makes Seismic Shift unique is the ability to provide me, as an artist, with agency and autonomy. This allows me to grow creatively and collaboratively while having the resources to sustain a healthy work environment with equitable pay rates as we create the work.
— Dazaun Soleyn, Artist in Residence
Benefits of the Artist Residence
Creative Sovereignty
Utilizing a model of Creative Sovereignty, (a term coined by Seminole/Muskogee Director Tara Moses) to describe the inherent right to create artistic work free from outside interference, particularly those that may be oppressive, to create work that is truthful and transformative.
Marketing Support
Encourages creative partnership to develop materials and a marketing plan that is led by Workshop staff in partnership with the artists.
Creative Thought Partnership
Encourages artists to leverage the organization's talents to support the development of their project. The depth of thought partnership will be determined in partnership and can ebb and flow as needs shift.
Rehearsal Space and Resources
Allows artists in residence to develop and rehearse their project in a beautiful venue with sprung floors. Additionally, supports artists with printing, WiFi access, projector use, and other materials whenever possible.
Paid Project Development Time
Encourages artists to spend time on their craft by paying an allotted number of hours at a living wage.
Production Support
Focuses on deepening a creative partnership that is respectful of the artists’ vision while ensuring that artists’ and Workshop’s anti-racist values remain a central focus.