Back
Brooklyn arts nonprofit and venue roots

History of ShapeShifter Plus

ShapeShifter Plus grew from the artist-centered work of ShapeShifter Lab into a nonprofit presenting organization dedicated to performance, education, and creative community.

2012 ShapeShifter Lab opens as a Brooklyn venue.
2014 ShapeShifter Plus is founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
10,000+ Performances presented across the community's history.

Founding and mission

ShapeShifter Plus is a Brooklyn-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2014 by Matt Garrison, Fortuna Sung, and Ravi Coltrane. The organization was created to promote innovative artistic expression and to give artists a home where they can stretch musical, educational, and creative boundaries. [source]

ShapeShifter Plus grew out of running ShapeShifter Lab, a Brooklyn venue founded by Matthew Garrison and Fortuna Sung in 2012. Over more than a decade, they presented over 10,000 performances, learning what their community of artists and patrons needed and wanted. With that experience, they formed ShapeShifter Plus to advance and implement new ideas for the arts community, with Ravi Coltrane joining as a key director. [source]

Vision and activities

The mission of ShapeShifter Plus is to give artists and organizations room to realize their visions with creativity and freedom. The organization presents curated performances and workshops by local and international artists, with a focus on inclusivity and pushing boundaries in the music community. Education and music are central—bringing people together through many artistic forms. [source]

Based in Brooklyn but not tied to one place, ShapeShifter Plus has streamed events to audiences around the world. The organization is supported by a board and advisors that include Herbie Hancock, Roberta Escamilla Garrison, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Arturo O’Farrill.

Founders

  • Matthew Garrison — Bassist, producer, and entrepreneur; son of Jimmy Garrison (John Coltrane’s bassist). Co-founder of ShapeShifter Lab and ShapeShifter Plus. [source]
  • Fortuna Sung — Co-founder and business partner; central to creating and operating ShapeShifter Lab and ShapeShifter Plus. [source]
  • Ravi Coltrane — Saxophonist and director; joined the founders to help carry the organization’s mission forward. [source]