About Shunpike: Established by artists in 2001, Shunpike envisions a community where independent artists and arts groups thrive, creatively and economically, and where their work is widely valued as fundamental to the cultural, social and economic wellbeing of Washington State. To achieve this vision, we provide artists with the services, resources and opportunities they need to forge their own paths to sustainable success. Based on our key organizational values of inclusivity, relevance and accessibility, Shunpike strives to serve a diversity of independent artists and arts groups across Washington State, embracing artists working in all art-forms, as well as those identifying as emerging and/or established. 

Our Commitment to Racial Equity:  Inclusion means my voice is heard. Diversity means I am reflected and represented in the organization at every level. Equity means I am supported by systems and policies that ensure I succeed, despite historic patterns of hindered success. Shunpike is committed to this statement of equity and work to ensure that all staff and clients apply this lens to the work that they do.

The Storefronts Program:  In 2010, an innovative consortium of city and neighborhood organizations inaugurated the Storefronts program in Seattle’s Pioneer Square and International District neighborhoods by activating empty storefronts with vibrant local art and creative projects. At the time, the initiative sought to address high retail vacancy rates that were symptomatic of the economic downturn. Though Seattle's economic climate is now stronger, Shunpike continues to support our creative community and urban neighborhoods by providing opportunities for artists to showcase dynamic, engaging works that reach out to passersby, humanize our built environment, and support urban revitalization.

ACES // Artists of Color Expo & Symposium: In 2017, with community guidance and participation, we held the first annual ACES at the Seattle Armory. ACES is a BIPOC-led event featuring performances, exhibits, workshops, films, presentations, artist talks, and info sessions. Our vision is to establish a space to celebrate and center ourselves, especially in communities of color where crisis breeds innovation. We gather in joy and solidarity, to celebrate our work and to see each other as resources, while focusing on the challenges and solutions we face as artists of color in the Pacific Northwest.

The Studio @ 2+U: In 2021, and in partnership with Skanska, we opened the doors to the Studio @ 2+U. Located on 2nd and University, 2+U is a 38-story high skyscraper office building located in the heart of the city. The Studio is a dedicated 1,100 sq. ft. workshop, rehearsal, and presentation space, and is available at no cost to selected musical, movement, and performing artists.