About Sushi
Sushi Performance and Visual Art, founded in 1980, is a San Diego-based nonprofit multi-disciplinary presenting organization, that cultivates alternative voices in the contemporary arts. Sushi is committed to providing its artists and audiences with a laboratory where creative exploration, community engagement, and new ideas flourish. Sushi’s flexibility and commitment to contemporary programming has made it unique. Sushi has never wavered from its belief that art must reflect its culture. Sushi believes that vital art making must break boundaries and take risks. Sushi has been a pioneer in presenting quality innovative art, and has provided the needed open space for artists to forge their groundbreaking work. An integral part of the West Coast cultural landscape, Sushi earns national acclaim for the San Diego arts community and provides a forum for artists to reflect the rich diversity of our multifaceted ethnic, cultural, sexual, and personal backgrounds.
Sushi’s Mission is realized through the following activities:
- Presentation of exceptional local, national, and international contemporary artists;
- Mentoring of emerging artists;
- Coordination of special events, series, and festivals;
- Creation of artists’ residencies;
- Presentation of educational activities;
- Management of a community space.
Sushi’s Core Programs are:
- Sushi Direct: the presentation of multidisciplinary performance that includes dance, performance art, spoken word, music, theatre, film, video, and visual art;
- Visual Sushi: the exhibition of contemporary visual art projects and installations;
- New Wave Showcase: annual project that mentors and presents emerging regional artists;
- 4x4 Series: monthly informal presentation of San Diego artists of all levels, which focuses on new experimental works in a non-traditional setting;
- Cinema Lounge: monthly series that presents films with speakers and discussions in an informal atmosphere;
- Sushi AIR: an annual international artist-in-residence project;
- Educational Activities include master classes, workshops, lectures, and discussions;
- Sushi Space at 11th & J: community space for rehearsals, performance, classes, workshops, and receptions available on a rental basis.
Creating a home for the urban arts
During the redevelopment of its facility, Sushi has presented its programming in the “Takeout Series” from 2004-2008, at various venues throughout the San Diego region. Takeout has introduced new artists and ideas to expanded audiences and strengthened Sushi’s ties to the entire San Diego community.
We look forward to our new facility, and the opportunity to continue our commitment to presenting innovative and provocative contemporary performance and visual art.