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Who We Are
Kinetic is a Brooklyn-based creative arts collective curating space for creatives of color to grow and make work that matters. Kinetic was founded and is led by Dr. Cedric C. Johnson, an educator, musician, and arts advocate. We’re building a dynamic ecosystem anchored in performance, authentic connection, and spiritual formation—equipping our community to flourish, create boldly, and build a more equitable world. We stand in the legacy of earlier arts-focused movements that created supportive ecosystems for creatives of color—spaces that combined performance, formation, and cultural impact. Kinetic is building a faith-informed version of that kind of community for our time.
Our mission is to support artistic exploration, ignite social change, and foster spirituality through innovative programming that melds creative expression with community engagement. We are inspired by a commitment to foster human flourishing and build a more equitable society. In a rapidly changing competitive world, where hustle culture leaves little room for reflection and true connection, we offer something different—a space for creative flourishing, collective imagination, spiritual renewal, and radical belonging.
How We Began
During New York City’s COVID-impacted years, what was evident to many before the pandemic, became undeniable to everyone. More resources were needed to help promote human well-being, particularly in the city’s most vulnerable and underserved communities. Out of a desire to “be the change” we wanted to see, Dr. Cedric Johnson, a former drummer and producer, and his wife, Veronica, a fashion professional, began partnering with other creatives and community-based organizations to host events in Gowanus and downtown Brooklyn. Inspired by a belief in the capacity of the arts to promote well-being and build community, the events included open mics, poetry slams, live music and dance performances, support groups, and other gatherings.
As a result, a vibrant community of creatives and changemakers began to grow organically. What became clear was that by leveraging the power of the arts, along with community engagement, wellness initiatives, and spirituality, Kinetic could serve as a needed catalyst in Brooklyn, capable of promoting human flourishing and fostering community development. We didn’t know exactly where our journey would take us when we began, but we were committed to supporting creatives and using the arts as a vehicle for hope, healing, and transformation for the people who call New York City home! We invite you to join us!
How to Engage
Whether you're a creative, changemaker, or someone seeking community in a fractured world, you're welcome here. We invite you to connect with us—at your own pace and in your own way.
Attend an event – Join us for open mics, mixers, live performances and artist talks that offer space for renewal, reflection, and community.
Join a SoulLab Circle – Deepen your creative practice, explore spirituality, or build collaborative connections through one of our artist cohorts.
Support the work – Your financial gifts help sustain transformative spaces where lives are nourished and culture is reshaped.
Volunteer your talents – Whether you're drawn to event production, artist care, hospitality, digital storytelling, or behind-the-scenes support, there’s a place for you to contribute.
Sign up for our newsletter – Be the first to hear about upcoming gatherings, creative opportunities, and community offerings.