Conduit was co-founded in 1995 by Linda K. Johnson and Mary Oslund as a place where contemporary dance artists could rehearse, teach, explore new ideas, and perform their work. By 1997, Conduit was collectively run by six knowledgeable artists and administrators offering a full schedule of classes in contemporary movement and body awareness forms, and an array of ground-breaking contemporary dance performances.

Conduit's reputation as a dance center of the highest quality was initially based in the success of these six core artists: Keith V. Goodman, Michael Menger, Gregg Bielemeier, Tere Mathern, Linda K Johnson and Mary Oslund. Conduit honors the creative energy and commitment contributed by each of these core artists. Their work continues to influence Conduit's success as an important resource and creative force for the community.

In 2001, Tere Mathern and Mary Oslund became co-directors and began to reshape Conduit as a nonprofit organization in order to expand its community role and to serve a broader group. Conduit's goal to host full-length performances by a variety of contemporary artists, and to be a focal point for dance artists seeking to create and learn continues, with hopes of providing additional assistance to working artists through programs that offer direct technical and creative support.

In existence now for ten years (view 10 Years Running movie), Conduit is proud to have a reputation for being a center for contemporary dance in the region. We have hosted a range of events, performances, and workshops with a long list of international, national, regional and local artists working in collaboration with PICA, PIP Fest, White Bird, Reed College and others. Each year, Conduit hosts an annual Summer Intensive program of workshops, classes, and performance opportunities for professionals and those working toward professional dance careers.