Hello Friends! Japantown Artwalk is Back in San Jose 🎉

We’re thrilled to announce that the Japantown Artwalk is officially back — and better than ever!

Join us every 2nd Saturday from 12 PM to 6 PM as your favorite local shops open their doors to showcase exciting new art installations, creative programming, and community vibes. It’s a FREE daytime event, and each location offers something unique, so be sure to check specific shop hours.

We kicked things off last month during San Jose Walls, and the turnout was incredible! Many local businesses participated by activating their spaces with family-friendly fun — and the energy was amazing.

This weekend is extra special as it coincides with the beloved Obon Festival, a traditional Japanese cultural celebration that honors ancestors and brings the community together. Expect delicious food, beautiful performances, and a joyful neighborhood atmosphere.

Whether you're a longtime local or new to Japantown, this is the perfect time to explore, support small businesses, and experience the cultural richness of San Jose’s historic Japantown.

Explore unique installations, gallery shows, pop-ups, and performances across your favorite small businesses. Each location brings something different—so check with them for specific times and programming! See you there!

Participating Locations:
🎨 Coldwater — @coldwater.sj
🎨 Cukui — @cukui
🎨 Empire Seven Studios — @empire7studios
🎨 Know Future Gallery — @knowfuturegallery
🎨 Japanese American Museum SJ — @jamsjofficial
🎨 Minasan — @minasan.sj
🎨 Moment — @moment.jtown
🎨 Roy’s Station — @roysstation
🎨 The Coterie Den — @thecoterieden
🎨 Tono Coffee — @tonocoffeeproject
🎨 Wynn Smog — @wynnsmogcenter
🎨 Zonkey — @zonkeytoys

🧧 Whether you're here for art, heritage, or just a good time with great people, Japantown welcomes you.

📸 Don’t forget to tag us: @jtownartwalk
🔖 Hashtags: #JapantownSJ #Japantown #SanJoseJapantown #SanJose #DTSJ #SanJoseLove #VisitSanJose

Exquisite Corpse — Big Happy, Jason Jägel, and Martín Ferreyra reunite @ E7S

Empire Seven Studios presents: Exquisite Corpse — Big Happy, Jason Jägel, and Martín Ferreyra reunite with a collaborative painting: a playful mashup of head, torso, and legs, each painted blindly by a different hand. Rooted in trust, freedom, and the surrealist game that inspired it, this piece celebrates modularity and individual expression. Acrylic on wood, built in parts — fully connected by process and intent.

Alongside their joint piece, each artist will also exhibit solo work: new paintings by Big Happy, never-before-seen pieces by Jason Jägel, and paintings, ceramics, and textiles by Martín Ferreyra, made in his Oaxaca studio. Plus, ethereal dreamscapes by Cecilia Enrich.

THE ARTISTS:

Big Happy @mrbighappy grew up in a working-class Chicano community in Merced, CA. His first art came through inked letters from uncles in San Quentin and neighborhood graffiti. With no formal training, he turned to streets, sound, and memory—art became a way to shape and express feeling.

Jason Jägel @jagel (Boston-born, SF-based) is a painter, educator, and public artist. His work uses the language of comics to build imagined worlds. “I want to create a place with its own inner life and see what happens.”

Martín Ferreyra @martin_ferreyra (Argentina-born, Oaxaca-based) is primarily self-taught. His work blends painting and ceramics to explore identity, ritual, and collective myth. Exhibitions span Latin America, Europe, and North America.

Special Feature: Cecilia Enrich (Mexico City/Oaxaca-based) @ceciliaaenrich creates dreamlike narratives that blur the line between real and imagined. Her oniric work channels memory, emotion, and the mystical unseen.

Opening Reception - Saturday, July 12 from 12:00-8:00pm
Exhibit on view - July 12 - August 9, 2025
Location - Empire Seven Studios - 525 N 7th Street, suite 10, San Jose, CA 95112

Tono Coffee from 9:00am-5:00pm
Mogu Curry serving from 11:00 am-3:00pm
Pupusa Maranatha from 3:00-7:00pm
And of course beverages from our friends at Foxtale Fermantation!

The Official Exquisite Corpse After Show After Party at The Hedley Club

We teamed up with our friends at Universal Grammar to throw down something truly unforgettable—the Official Exquisite Corpse After Show After Party! 🎉

Sets from: Flipside Lovers, Ren Sweaterfunk, Infinite Jess, D.stro, Cool Raul, and Big Happy setting the tone with DJ sets that spanned funk, soul, house, and everything in between. As if that wasn’t enough, FUNKFREAKS will give us a teaser set at Empire Seven Studios!

The Hedley Club (9p–1a)
LINK TO TICKETS HERE

Artist Talk + Book Signing with Kevin Lyons & 123KLAN

Thursday, June 5 | 7:00–8:30PM
📍 Empire Seven Studios
🎟️ Free & Open to the Public

What does it take to turn personal style into global influence?
How does a graffiti practice evolve into a fully fledged brand or business?
And how do you stay creatively true while designing for the world’s biggest companies?

On Thursday, June 5, join us for a very special Artist Talk and Book Signing featuring two visionary forces in contemporary art and design: Kevin Lyons and 123KLAN.

Moderated by Victoria Velasquez and Ryan Mante of Petals and Peacocks, this conversation dives into how artists can build a creative practice that crosses from the street into the studio—and still stay true to their roots.

🎨 About the Artists

Kevin Lyons is best known for his iconic Monster characters—playful, expressive creatures that have appeared on everything from gallery walls to sneaker drops. As a designer, illustrator, and creative director, Kevin has worked with global brands like Nike, adidas, Stüssy, and Girl Skateboards, and continues to influence visual culture across fashion, music, and youth movements.

123KLAN—the French-Canadian graffiti duo Scien & Klor—are pioneers in merging graffiti art with graphic design. From their roots in Bray-Dunes, France, to building their own streetwear label Bandit-1SM, their work blurs the boundaries between public art, commercial design, and lifestyle branding. Their signature style—razor-sharp, high-energy, and pop-culture rich—has shaped street art aesthetics for decades.

🧠 The Conversation: Topics We’ll Explore

I. Intro & Foundations 7:00 - 7:10

II. Creative to Commercial 7:10 - 7:20

III. Collaboration Culture 7:20 - 7:30

IV. Building a Business from Art 7:30 - 7:40

V. Advice to Emerging Creatives 7:40 - 7:50

VI. Audience Q&A 7:50 - 8:00

We’ll open the floor for a few thoughtful audience questions—so bring yours!

📚 Bonus: Book Signing

Stick around after the talk for a special book signing session with both Kevin Lyons and 123KLAN—limited quantities available.

🕗 7:00–8:00PM – Artist Talk
🖊️ 8:00–8:30PM – Book Signing

🎟️ Don’t Miss It

This is a rare opportunity to hear from two global creative powerhouses on how they’ve turned their visual voices into creative legacies—without compromising who they are. Whether you're an artist, designer, brand founder, or just an admirer of culture, this conversation is for you.

📍 Empire Seven Studios
🗓️ Thursday, June 5
⏰ 7:00 – 8:30PM
🥂 Beverages by Foxtale Fermentation
🎟️ Free Event

"ORIGIN OF THE NAME 123KLAN" Opens Tuesday June 3, 6-9pm (Skydeck Gallery)

The name "123KLAN" originated from the zip code of Bray-Dunes (59123), a small, internationally unknown town in northern France. Founded in 1992 by Scien and Klor, they were the only graffiti artists in this town and initially named their crew "123KINGS" as a sarcastic nod to their local dominance.

Over time, this evolved to "123K," and finally to "123KLAN," reflecting the familial bond within the crew, which includes close friends and the couple Scien and Klor themselves, but also literally, as Scien and Mrs. Klor are a couple, making 'clan' the perfect descriptor for their crew.

123 Klan now based in Venice, California, after 15 years in Montreal, Canada, 123KLAN is a graffiti crew founded by the French duo Scien and Mrs Klor in 1992.

Tireless, effervescent and often ironic creative force, Scien and Klor have been doing their art for 3 decades in the hip-hop galaxie and beyond. Influenced by the various 90’s graffiti art expressed in Europe and New York, 123KLAN crafted an hybrid style that gained recognition. 


123 Klan’s multidisciplinary approach and style is declined in several branches of knowledge. Graffiti art , production of canvas, walls, and worldwide exhibitions.


The creative studio produces graphics and branding for clients and their streetwear: BANDIT1SM x 123KLAN. Influenced by the various 90’s graffiti art expressed in Europe and New York, 123KLAN crafted an hybrid style that gained recognition.

They crafted a new language in graffiti art, transcending traditional styles with sharp-angled letters in vivid colors. Their first works were enriched by huge, sharped-angled letters in acid colors and characters with fand characters with futuristic manga features.

In 2001, 123KLAN members invaded the web, treating it as a new surface for their art. They merged graffiti and graphic design, using the internet as a tool for creation, expression, and dissemination. The technical rigor from graffiti and the expansive possibilities of digital technology fueled their innovative style. 123KLAN are pioneers in blending graffiti art with graphic design, creating a new synthesis described by their motto: "When street knowledge meets technology." By pushing the boundaries of these two disciplines, they have advanced graffiti aesthetics and introduced fresh ideas into contemporary graphic design. Their work spans multiple media, including record sleeves, posters, stickers, toys, skateboards, canvases, shoes, and t-shirts.

After collaborating with leading streetwear brands, Scien and Klor launched their own brand, BANDIT1SM, in 2007. This venture provided financial independence and creative freedom, allowing them to explore new artistic avenues. The 123KLAN style is characterized by its dynamic, almost violent vibrancy. Each piece is meticulously crafted with taut lines and razor-sharp color blocks. Their work is constantly evolving, showcased in numerous exhibitions and conferences worldwide.

123KLAN has exhibited in cities including Brussels, Berlin, Honolulu, Lisbon, Los Angeles, Marrakech, Mexico City, Moscow, New York, Paris, Rio, Sao Paulo, San Francisco, Sydney, Singapore, Tokyo, and Zurich. Their art reflects a unique blend of pop culture, hip-hop references, sarcasm, and self-deprecation.

As contemporary Pop artists, Scien and Klor draw inspiration from various sources, including Japanese cartoons and North American mascots. Their work, reproduced on posters and through their clothing brand BANDIT1$M, aligns them with significant artistic movements of the twentieth century.

If one word could describe 123KLAN's style, it would be “hectic.” Their work is anything but static, exuding a violent vibrancy. Each piece is a jewel fashioned with taut lines and razor-sharp color blocks. The dynamic nature of their art is in a state of perpetual renewal, showcased in numerous exhibitions and conferences worldwide, where the duo continually demonstrates their creative energy.

Come see them paint their latest San Jose Walls mural and Skydeck Gallery Exhibition Tuesday June 3, 6-9pm.

Beverages provided by Foxtale Fermentation

🎉 A Week of Art, Culture & Community and it's all FREE!

We’re proud to share the full schedule of San Jose Walls 2025, produced by Empire Seven Studios, bringing together art lovers, small businesses, and community in the heart of Japantown. Celebrate 135 years of this vibrant neighborhood. It has been a great privilege to contribute for 17 years and we’re excited for all the fun ahead!

This year’s festival features gallery exhibitions, artist talks, live music, pop-ups, and the first Jtown Artwalk of 2025! Starting, Saturday May 31 - June 8th there will be FREE events to the general public. Get there early if you want first dibs on artwork, books, merchandise, social media, and seating.

Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating local creativity!

GALLERY HOURS

May 29 – June 8
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily
📍 Empire Seven Studios
Empire Seven Studios galleries will be open daily during festival dates — stop by to explore a range of artworks from featured San Jose Walls alumni artists, make sure to view the new Skydeck Gallery located on the 4th floor of the building.

You will need to check in at Empire Seven Studios main gallery to get access.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

SATURDAY, MAY 31 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Pre-Game: “San Jose Walls Retrospective” Exhibition
📍 Empire Seven Studios
🍻 Drinks by Foxtale Fermentation
🎶 Music by DJ Soulseek
🍴 (Food TBD)

TUESDAY, JUNE 3 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
123Klan Artist Exhibition
📍 Skydeck Gallery (4th Floor) located at Exhibit Jtown (same location at Empire Seven Studios)

THURSDAY, JUNE 5 | 7:00 – 8:30 PM
“Building Brands from a Creative Process” Artist Talk + Book Signing
📍 Empire Seven Studios
🎤 7:00–8:00 PM: Artist Talk with Kevin Lyons & 123Klan 
✍️ 8:00–8:30 PM: Book Signing

SATURDAY, JUNE 7 | 12:00 – 6:00 PM
Jtown Artwalk – FREE Daytime Event!
Celebrate Japantown's local businesses, food, music, and creativity! A family-friendly event open to all.

Participating Locations Include:
Coldwater - Streetwear
Cukui – Streetwear & gallery
Empire Seven Studios – Kristina Micotti Pop-Up + 50% Off Sale
Know Future Gallery – Art Gallery & Studios
Minasan – Vinyl, apparel & curated home goods
Moment – Rotating pop-up shops 
Roys Station - Cafe & Community Hub
The Coterie Den – Recording Studio - Photography / Film Studio - Multi-media space
Wynn Smog – Community-driven & culture hub
Zonkey – Designer toys & collectibles 

SUNDAY, JUNE 8
🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Mural Tour
Explore newly completed murals and installations across Japantown and around Empire Seven Studios.

🚴 Viva Calle San Jose
Experience the city car-free with open streets for biking, walking, and exploring neighborhoods!

STAY CONNECTED!
Follow us on Instagram: @empire7studios
Learn more: www.empiresevenstudios.com and www.sjwalls.com

#SanJoseWalls #JtownArtwalk #JapantownSJ #SupportLocal #PublicArt #EmpireSevenStudios #SJEvents #VivaCalle

Honoring the Artists: A Retrospective Exhibition Celebrating 9 Years of San Jose Walls

As we gear up for the 2025 San Jose Walls Festival, we’re also taking a moment to look back—to honor the journey, the art, and most importantly, the artists who have helped shape San Jose’s public art movement over the past nine years.

Join us Saturday May 31, 6-9pm and come meet the artists you love to see on the walls throughout San Jose.

Foxtale Fermentation will be pouring your favorite kombucha, and DJ Soulseek will be setting the mood.

Since its debut in 2017, San Jose Walls has grown from a local initiative into an internationally recognized celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Along the way, it has transformed blank city walls into stories—vibrant, powerful, and deeply personal. These murals are more than paint—they’re moments, memories, and milestones etched into the city itself.

Now, in conjunction with this year’s festival, we're proud to present a special retrospective artist exhibition—a tribute to the incredible talent that has brought our vision to life.

A Decade of Impact, A Lifetime of Stories

Produced by Empire Seven Studios, which is itself celebrating 17 years of creative collaboration, this exhibition is our way of saying thank you. It's a gathering of past and present—a visual timeline of the bold voices, unique styles, and cultural perspectives that have made San Jose Walls what it is today.

You’re Invited!

The retrospective exhibition will debut during the 2025 San Jose Walls Festival, hosted at Empire Seven Studios in Japantown. We hope you’ll join us—whether you're from down the street or across the globe—for this special opening. Come reconnect with familiar works, discover new ones, and celebrate the artists who’ve helped paint the spirit of San Jose.

This is more than an exhibition—it’s a heartfelt reflection on what can happen when a community believes in the power of art. We can’t wait to share it with you.

Opening reception: Saturday, May 31 from 6:00-9:00pm
Exhibit on view: May 31 - July 5, 2025

Participating artists:
Amine Rastgar
Apexer
Casey Gray
Drew Roulette
Edgar Sanchez
Griffin
Harumo Sato
J.duh
Jacqueline de Leon
Jeff Meadows
Jet Martinez
Jordan Gabriel
Lauren Napolitano
Kensuke Takahashi
Kristin Farr
Kristina Micotti
Melissa Manuel
Mesngr
Ricky Watts
Roan Victor
Ruben Escalante
Ryan Bubnis
Sean Boyles
Shayne Oseguera
Spenser Little
TravMSK
Wisper

Welcome to the 2025 San Jose Walls Festival

A vibrant week-long celebration of public art, music, and community that transforms San Jose into a living canvas.

San Jose Walls returns for its 9th edition from May 29 to June 8, bringing explosive color, creativity, and culture to the streets of San Jose—especially in Japantown at Empire Seven Studios at Exhibit Jtown. Artists, volunteers, creatives, and producers will come together for an exhilarating mural-painting marathon that showcases the power of endurance, imagination, and collaboration.

A Global Movement with Local Roots

San Jose Walls is more than a festival—it's part of the global World Wide Walls network, a movement that spans over 25 cities worldwide. At its core, the mission is simple but powerful: to uplift neighborhoods through public art. What started out of necessity—due to funding challenges and the loss of our physical gallery—has now come full circle. We've helped create over 100 murals throughout San Jose, transforming once-blank walls into symbols of identity, culture, and resilience.

Today, we’re proud to see public institutions, companies, and nonprofits trusting and commissioning local artists to make their mark on the city. Whether it’s their first mural or their fiftieth, these artists continue to shape San Jose’s ever-evolving visual identity.

What to Expect

There’s something truly special about watching a blank wall come to life—brushstroke by brushstroke—right before your eyes. Throughout the week, you’ll have the chance to see artists in action, painting large-scale murals creating large scale fabrication, and a sixteen foot long pop up installation in real time. You can drop in and take a free lesson from artists through observation, connect with local creatives, and bring the whole family to youth-friendly events. The energy is electric, the stories are real, and the culture is deeply rooted. This isn’t just about art—it’s about showing up for each other. It’s about shared space, shared stories, and the power of creativity to spark something bigger than all of us. Whether you’re joining a workshop, chatting with an artist, or just taking it all in, you’re part of this movement.

This year’s wonderful line up includes:

123KLAN’S name originated from the zip code of Bray-Dunes (59123), a small, internationally unknown town in northern France. Founded in 1992 by Scien and Klor, they were the only graffiti artists in this town and initially named their crew "123KINGS" as a sarcastic nod to their local dominance. 123 Klan now based in Venice, California, after 15 years in Montreal, Canada, 123KLAN is a graffiti crew founded by the French duo Scien and Mrs Klor in 1992. Tireless, effervescent and often ironic creative force, Scien and Klor have been doing their art for 3 decades in the hip-hop galaxie and beyond. Influenced by the various 90’s graffiti art expressed in Europe and New York, 123KLAN crafted an hybrid style that gained recognition. They crafted a new language in graffiti art, transcending traditional styles with sharp-angled letters in vivid colors. Their first works were enriched by huge, sharped-angled letters in acid colors and characters with fand characters with futuristic manga features. In 2001, 123KLAN members invaded the web, treating it as a new surface for their art. They merged graffiti and graphic design, using the internet as a tool for creation, expression, and dissemination. The technical rigor from graffiti and the expansive possibilities of digital technology fueled their innovative style. If one word could describe 123KLAN's style, it would be “hectic.” Their work is anything but static, exuding a violent vibrancy. Each piece is a jewel fashioned with taut lines and razor-sharp color blocks. The dynamic nature of their art is in a state of perpetual renewal, showcased in numerous exhibitions and conferences worldwide, where the duo continually demonstrates their creative energy.

Official Artists for San Jose Walls 2025

Giorgiko (pronounced JOR-jee-koh) is the moniker of husband-and-wife artists Darren and Trisha Inouye.  Giorgiko’s work deals with the affective dimension of the human experience through their childlike characters and mysterious dogs who represent the innocence and carnality of the human spirit and soul. Giorgiko’s work combines the simple sweetness of Trisha’s characters with Darren’s street influence, classical painting techniques, and playfully anachronistic elements, allowing their characters to transcend space and time. Through the harmonious blending of classical and contemporary in their paintings and drawings, Giorgiko explores recurring themes of feeling displaced, discovering empathy, holding onto hope, and retaining innocence. Characters in urban clothing seem stranded in the wilderness, while characters with historical attire loiter in apocalyptic urban landscapes. Long-forgotten space dogs dream of home, and so do pink-haired girls. Through moody landscapes and childlike characters, Giorgiko hopes to create a universe paralleling our own that opens a window into seeing ourselves and others sincerely and truthfully in all of our flaws and beauty. Darren and Trisha first met during orientation at their alma mater ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California. Trisha hails from a Korean immigrant family in the San Francisco Bay area and was always drawing instead of doing homework. Meanwhile, Darren is a 4th generation Japanese-American from Los Angeles who fell in love with street art in his youth. They sat next to each other in Design 1, and the rest is history. The creative duo resides in the greater Los Angeles area with their twin children.

Official Artists for San Jose Walls 2025

Kensuke Takahashi from a young age, Kensuke started immersing himself in the world of fine arts. In 2005, he made a serious commitment to pursuing a career in this field. With his artistic talent and creative freedom, Kensuke ventures beyond traditional boundaries to create diverse artwork for festivals, events, business illustrations, jacket designs for musicians, and more. This expansive repertoire showcases the breadth and diversity of his artistic endeavours. In 2012, Kensuke had his debut solo exhibition in Yokohama, which was well-received and led to further recognition in Tokyo and Nagoya. His solid descriptive ability, precise, technique, free imagination that transcends reality, Kensuke is active in a wide range of craft of artwork. His crafts includes, large-scale artwork for the government, mural in restaurant and stores, and artwork for large corporations. Written by WAKABA

Official Artist for San Jose Walls 2025

Kevin Lyons is a creative director, illustrator, and artist based in Brooklyn, NY. He has created products with Nike, Adidas, Converse, Huf, Stussy, SSUR, Stance, Umbro, Vans, Uniqlo, Mighty Healthy, CLOT, Colette, and Girl Skateboards, among others. His signature "Monster" characters have appeared on murals around the world including at Pow! Wow! Hawaii / Japan / Long Beach; Murals in the Market Detroit; Life is Beautiful, Las Vegas; Coachella; Colette in Paris; Milan Design Week; Mural Arts, Raleigh, NC; and at Stussy in Japan. As a creative director, he has worked with such clients as Nike, Converse, Umbro, Diesel, Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola, American Express, among others. While Managing Partner at Anomaly NYC, he won an Emmy for title design for Eric Ripert's PBS series, Avec Eric, and also a Cannes Golden Lion for his campaign for Diesel. Kevin is the former global Creative Director for Urban Outfitters. In a 7-year tenure, he helped shape the brand holistically, including: exterior signage, retail environment, digital design, packaging, posters & promotions, book and catalog design, labeling, and products. Kevin also led the acclaimed music program, oversaw the brand's PR and marketing and the corporate design for the umbrella company Urban Outfitters, Inc. In other past lives, Kevin has worked as a Design Director at Stussy Worldwide; Art Director for Spike Jonze's Girl Skateboard; US Art Director for Tokion Magazine, and Senior Designer for Nike Inc.

Official Artist for San Jose Walls 2025

Songhe Kim was born 1982, in Tokyo as a third generation of the Koreans. Kim studied at the Korean school until 18 years old and entered the Oda Fashion College. After graduating the fashion college, her action to become an artist has begun. In 2005, her art piece was decorated in the window of a highly sensed store “LOVELESS” which gave a massive attention to the market and this was the start of her career as a chandelier artist. Since then, she has done many art works for brands and companies, both in and outside Japan and continues further as follows to space decoration and product designs. Her art works gets an attention beyond the sea and in 2009, Kim exhibited at “U.S.B: Emerging Korean Artists in the World 2009” held at the Hangram Art Museum in Seoul. In 2016, Kim self-published her art book “TROPHY” and at the same time she was chosen to launch a solo exhibition at the LAFORET Museum which became one of a great success in her artist career. Kim’s art is unrivaled and you can see many American toys, stuffed animals, Daruma, Manekineko, and Kumade that are collaged one by one by her hand. The technique called “Junk Collage” which Kim uses to express her art is never disconnected from her origins of the third generation of the Koreans. Her art work reflects the days that she always had to live as a minority and that even connects to an ideal of a multiculturalism. This will tell you that her art looks a little messy=JUNK but the world is balanced with a strange balance.

Official Artist for San Jose Walls 2025

Spenser Little California-based artist has spent the past 15 years creating sculptures by bending and cutting wire into figurative portraits and phrases. His lightweight pieces have been installed on lamp posts and other existing structures around the world and have also been exhibited in numerous gallery shows.

According to Little, a few of his sculptures combine multiple pieces and include moving parts, though most of his work is made using one continuous piece of wire. The artist bends the rigid material using a pair of needle-nose pliers until it fits the image of his subject or his imagination. The work ranges from playful figures that interact with their surroundings to pointed commentaries on an internet and tech-obsessed society. Collectors encounter the sculptures framed and presented in a gallery setting, while others wire portraits have been left behind for pedestrians and explorers to find deep in caves and high above the streets. Known for his figurative wire pieces attached to light posts and other public fixtures around the world, Spenser Little’s recent artworks venture into the personal.

Illuminating Devices is comprised of the artist’s bent portraits and totems of merging faces, in addition to a series of irradiated kinetic sculptures. Evoking the nesting doll, these abstract figures contain spacious chest cavities that open up to reveal similar, smaller forms hidden inside.For each lamp, Little carves a wooden structure of the main character’s head, welds a metal body, and overlays the components with thin paper “skin,” repeating the process for subsequent pieces. He also seats wooden figures in the deepest caverns. The relationship between the inner and outer sculptures explores the tension between the conscious and subconscious.

Official Artist San Jose Walls 2025

A Thank You to the Dreamers

From everyone at Empire Seven Studios and San Jose Walls, thank you to those who’ve supported our wild ideas and helped turn dreams into tangible art. Whether you're a local who’s watched this movement grow, or a visitor seeing it for the first time—you are welcome here.

Come witness this living gallery in the heart of San Jose. This is what the city represents.

San Jose Day Recap – A Week We’re Still Buzzing From

San Jose Day Recap – A Week We’re Still Buzzing From

San Jose Day number seven is officially a wrap… but is it really tho?! The energy, the community, the vibes are still alive and well—especially since the artists' exhibition is still on display through May. You can literally feel the positivity radiating from the walls. Over the weekend, hundreds showed up, early birds scored the art, and Foxtale Fermentation kegs were tapped mid-show. Ritmos Latinos kept the beat alive, and honestly? It was impossible not to move—inside or outside the gallery.

In an age of social media hustle, where everyone’s doing backflips to get attention, we leaned into simplicity. No sneak peeks. No circus acts. Just word of mouth and real connection. And it worked. Because when you create a space where families and friends feel welcome and safe, people show up with their whole hearts. That’s the kind of energy we’re about—and we’re staying rooted in that authenticity.

SJ Day 2025: More Than a Day, It Was a Movement

This year’s San Jose Day felt bigger, more alive. It stretched into a full-on week, almost like a cousin of San Jose Walls—and we were here for every moment. 408 Day kicked it all off with a dope documentary From San Jose With Love spotlighting creatives who are either born-and-raised or now call this city home. You can watch it on YouTube HERE —it's a solid 30 minutes packed with raw stories from some seriously inspiring humans.

The film features local powerhouses like Jorge Camacho (Jduh), Ellina Yin (Only In SJ), Alex Knowbody, (A Photo Night in Japantown ), and Executive Director Haley Cardemon, just to name a few. The premiere also hosted a panel discussion that dove deeper into their journeys—big respect to everyone who’s been hustling behind the scenes for the last decade to make cool stuff happen in the 408.

Art, Fashion, and All the Funky in Between

On Tuesday, April 8, the true spirit behind San Jose Day was brought to life through "Handled", a custom 1-of-1 tote bag-themed show co-curated by Jorge Camacho and Cukui. This wasn’t your average art show—it was an ode to upcycling, thrifting, and South Bay fashion ingenuity. Seriously, shopping for a wardrobe has never been more inspiring or challenging, in the best way.

Boutiques have been popping up from festival markets to full-on brick-and-mortar shops, keeping clothes out of landfills and injecting personality back into fashion. If you haven’t caught this exhibit yet, it’ll be on Cukui’s walls all month—go check it out.

Empire Seven Studios = Pure Vibes

Saturday’s pre-game party at Empire Seven Studios was next-level. Pure positivity. Our gallery keeps pushing boundaries with unique artworks, prints, sculptures, custom gear, and rad collabs. From Japanese calligrapher Hazu to Chicano historian Mr. 1777, our shelves reflect our community—nerdy, niche, and full of soul.

It’s an absolute joy when someone walks in and says, “I’ve been looking for this everywhere.” That’s the magic. That’s why we do what we do. We’re not here to compete—we’re here to curate with intention, bring something new to the table, and make space for everyone to thrive.

Viva Calle: Rolling Deep Through the 408

And then came Sunday, with Sunny, our official SJ Day mascot, smiling down from wherever mascots hang out. Viva Calle brought the city to life—streets shut down for bikes, boards, skates, and even those ridiculous (but awesome) scooter-coolers. The kids were out, training wheels and all, powering through the route like pros.

From Emma Prusch Park through a winding trail of 150+ vendors, food trucks, live art, and performances, it was a true celebration of San Jose's culture and creativity. The pit stop we co-curated? Hands down one of the best we’ve ever been a part of.

So yeah—if you missed it this year, we hope you’re feeling the FOMO just a little. Not in a petty way, but in that “dang, I need to catch this next time” way. More than anything, we’re just grateful. Grateful to participate, to host, to build with the SJ Day team, and to help shape a weekend that brought joy to so many.

Until next year, keep creating, keep showing up, and keep it 408. 💛

Photography by Alex Knowbody @alexknowbody www.alexknowbody.com

The 7th San Jose Day Art Show Returns to Empire Seven Studios!

We’re excited to announce the return of the San Jose Day Art Show to Empire Seven Studios, taking place on Saturday, April 12th, from 5-9pm. This year’s event is set to be bigger and better than ever, with a special pre-game gathering featuring over 50 local artists who will showcase their creative voices and celebrate the vibrant culture of San Jose.

On Sunday, April 13th, the celebration continues with a larger event at Emma Prusch Park during Viva Calle. Executive Director Haley Cardemon envisioned a pre-game event to highlight the diverse artistic community in San Jose, and we’ve worked tirelessly to curate an exceptional show. The selection process was especially challenging this year, as artists were asked to create larger works than in previous years. With limited wall space, our focus was on quality over quantity for this special occasion.

This marks the second year of curating the San Jose Day exhibition, and we continue to encourage artists to embrace their unique styles and voices, as it is their authenticity that truly represents the local art scene today. By learning about what an artist creates and how they define their individuality, we discover the true essence of San Jose through art.

We’re thrilled to feature several veteran Empire Seven Studios artists who have long been a part of our gallery community, including Jason Adams, Jai Tanju, Jessico Serrano, Louie Barletta, Mitsy Avilla Ovalles, and many more.

Entertainment for the evening will be provided by Los Ritmos Calientes, a dynamic Colombian duo known for spinning a rare collection of tropical vinyl from the 50s to the 90s. We’ve collaborated with them before and have learned that their musical influences span indie, punk, disco, rock, and 80s jams. Nandi and Esteban have recently settled in San Jose, and we’re excited to introduce their musical creativity to our local scene—prepare to be blown away!

We’re also excited to present a live music performance by Yeobo, a trio with smooth sounds made up of guitarist/songwriter Kee Hyon Higgins, drummer/keyboardist Jenn Cain, and bassist/songwriter Glenn Bell. Formed in Seaside, California, in 2024, Yeobo blends psychedelic rock with hip-hop rhythms, evoking the simplicity and nostalgia of their ‘90s youth. The band’s first EP and visual album will be released in April 2025.

Food & Drinks:
No event is complete without great food and drinks! La Patrona Taco Truck will be serving up delicious Mexican cuisine, while Bake That Ass Up will provide mouthwatering desserts, including custom gluten-free and egg-free buttercream cakes. Foxtale Fermentation, a local plant-based restaurant and brewery, will be pouring an exclusive beverage selection for the opening reception, including beers, kombuchas, mocktails, and teas. Don’t forget to check out their innovative menu at their Downtown San Jose location.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, April 12th! Be sure to support these amazing local businesses and enjoy a night of art, music, and community.

Live Art Experiences

“Life is random in its assignations of peerage, beauty and love. If you are born untitled, unnoticed, and unwelcome, you must find a way of reshuffling the cards in your favor. Try music, try art, try writing, try sports, and if you find them all too trying, you should try graffiti.”

 - Stephen Powers. 

There aren’t many places in San Jose where you can try all of those things. And I’m happy to report that 17 years later, Empire Seven Studios remains a place where you can. It is in this spirit of building connections through “trying things,” that we announce our open call for live art and workshops in the Bay Area and Los Angeles.  

In the early days of E7S, a seemingly forgettable warehouse space transformed into something part gallery, part recording studio, part dark room, where I could always track down a friend creating something. Tinkering. Playing. Scrapping it all and starting over. Hating it. It’s alright I guess-ing it. Straight up laughing at it. But each time, sharing it, with others in the space. Not because they needed content, not because of an algorithm, but because they genuinely wanted to make something and gather with friends and other creatives. 

As I watched E7S evolve, what I came to understand is that it shifted from a gritty warehouse to what Ray Oldenberg and Karen Christensen deemed a “Third Place.” That space outside of home but not at work where people gather and build community. After losing their original gallery space, I worried that their ability to live again as a third place may never return. But in true E7S spirit, Carlos and Jen found a way to reshuffle the cards in their favor and E7S at Exhibit was born. A new third place to exchange creative inspiration, where people could try things and meet their neighbors over a cup of Tono Coffee. 

While live art and workshops have always been a piece of the E7S puzzle, we’re excited to be launching an open call for creatives interested in collaborating with us for live art experiences both at our gallery and at our clients. All ideas are welcome, with an emphasis on those that are logistically thought out and a proven concept. From visual art, to crafts, to music, to performance art and even culinary experiences...if you have a live art idea and are based in the Bay Area or Los Angeles, we want to hear about it. 

Third places and shared experiences building connections amongst friends and strangers are needed now more than ever. Here’s to finding opportunities to gather and try things together in 2025. Questions about what we’re up to? Send me an email at Stacey@empiresevenstudios.com and let’s chat!

Click here to learn more.  

By Stacey Kellogg

Celebrating Artistic Innovation: A Mural Installation with a Bay Area Technology Giant

Celebrating Artistic Innovation: A Mural Installation with a Bay Area Technology Giant

Empire Seven Studios is proud to announce the completion of an exciting and innovative mural installations with a leading technology company in the Bay Area. This project is a significant milestone for us, highlighting our commitment to fostering creativity while supporting local and global talent. We are deeply grateful to our clients who share our passion for innovation and for embracing art as a key part of their company’s identity.

As a small business rooted in the Bay Area, Empire Seven Studios thrives on creating connections across borders. Our team is driven by a global vision, working with artists from all over the world while remaining deeply embedded in our local community. Connecting with people from all walks of life encourages diverse perspectives, which reflect the very essence of our company. This project was a perfect example of how art transcends boundaries and brings people together, enhancing the identity of both the client and the community.

Building a Bridge Between Technology and Art

So, how do we connect artists with a Bay Area technology company that reaches people worldwide? The challenge presented by our client was to design an art-forward concept that seamlessly integrated six floors of a central stairwell across two buildings. The vision was clear: to foster collaboration through space that reflects creativity and human connection.

We partnered with six talented artists to create murals on each floor, ensuring each piece reflected the artist’s unique vision while also aligning with the spatial concept. The goal was to create art that would fluidly connect the floors and spaces, helping to humanize the brand, energize the workplace, and celebrate the diversity of the Bay Area community. The final result is a stunning visual representation of innovation, collaboration, and creativity.

Championing Artists, Building Lifelong Relationships

At Empire Seven Studios, we are proud to have built lasting relationships with artists and clients alike. We believe in supporting the artists who take care of us by ensuring their work is treated with respect and care. This approach is vital in an industry where many often struggle with the basic fundamentals of fair compensation and representation. We go above and beyond to ensure that every artist we work with feels safe, respected, and valued, no matter the scale of the project.

Our goal is to foster a sense of trust and community among artists, clients, and all those involved. We’ve seen firsthand how collaboration leads to more meaningful work and lasting partnerships. When artists come together, they share ideas, experiences, and inspiration, which ultimately strengthens the work we create. Many of the artists involved in this project reflected on how rewarding the experience was, likening it to a creative summer camp—a time to form connections and build lasting memories.

Creating a Collaborative Network

Artists often work in isolation, spending hours in their studios honing their craft, whether it’s painting, sculpture, publishing, or designing. It’s easy for them to feel disconnected from the wider creative community. That’s why projects like these are so important. They provide an opportunity for artists to meet fellow creatives, form friendships, and build a network of professional relationships that can last a lifetime.

When artists work together in a collaborative environment, the result is always stronger and more meaningful. We’re proud to have witnessed the camaraderie and growth among our artists throughout this project. It’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of our work—seeing our artists flourish and knowing that we helped create the opportunity for them to do so.

A Thank You to Our Team and Partners

As a small, independent art gallery and mural production firm, we are deeply committed to making humanistic connections for all of our clients and artists. This project was no exception. We’d like to extend our deepest thanks to the team of designers, contractors, engineers, and, of course, the incredible artists who brought this installation to life. Working together to create something meaningful was an inspiring and fulfilling experience, and we’re grateful for everyone who contributed.

We look forward to many more collaborations like this, where art, innovation, and community intersect in ways that inspire and energize all those involved.

Thank you to our artists for creating these beautiful installations. It was great working with everyone!
Alice Lee
Andrew Schoultz
Carmen Mcnall
Kristin Farr
Madeleine Tonzi
Ricky Watts

Photos by Kevin Nguyen

"The Roosevelt Mural" located on East Santa Clara and North 21st Streets

Public art has an undeniable way of transforming a space, creating stories on walls that resonate with both locals and visitors alike. Murals, in particular, have the power to capture a community's spirit, history, and collective identity in a vibrant and accessible way. In San Jose, one such mural has become a testament to the strength and resilience of its people—the Roosevelt Mural, created by artist Shayne Martin Oseguera. At 77 feet tall and 125 feet long, this breathtaking piece of art stands as a tribute to the diverse cultures, rich history, and vibrant future of one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. But the story behind this mural goes far beyond the brushstrokes. It’s a story of community, mentorship, and the transformative power of art.

Over the years, San Jose has become a hub for artists to express themselves publicly. The Roosevelt Mural stands as a perfect example of how these projects can spark conversations, inspire local pride, and celebrate the unique history of the area. It's not just about the art itself; it’s about what the art represents: a city that values diversity, creativity, and the power of artistic expression to create a more connected and compassionate community.

In 2017, San Jose saw the launch of its very first mural festival—a bold and exciting venture for a city that had never hosted anything quite like it before. What started as an ambitious idea quickly grew into a vibrant, city-wide celebration of art, culture, and creativity. Planning for the festival took two years of effort, with the goal of not only bringing artists to San Jose but also highlighting the importance of public art as a tool for social change.

San Jose Walls was built on the foundation of collaboration—both between artists and organizers and between the local community and the larger world of art. The organizers recognized that bringing artists together in an urban space would allow them to challenge conventional ideas of art while also making it more accessible to everyone, from seasoned art critics to children passing by on their way to school. This effort to bridge the gap between fine art and everyday life made the festival truly unique.

And although producing an event of this scale was no small feat, the results spoke for themselves. From the very first mural that adorned the city’s walls to the hundreds of new pieces that followed, the festival brought a fresh energy to San Jose. Artists could now see their work come to life in public spaces, and the city’s residents could engage with art in a way that felt both personal and communal.

One of the standout stories from this inaugural mural festival is that of Shayne Oseguera, a talented young artist who not only participated in the event but became an integral part of the festival's ongoing success. Traveling from San Diego, Shayne arrived with the simple but powerful mindset: “I’m here to help.” His enthusiasm and willingness to dive in and lend a hand made him an immediate asset to the team, and over the course of the event, his commitment and talent began to shine through.

During that week of whirlwind activity, the behind-the-scenes work often went unnoticed, but Shayne was there, from one site to the next, checking in and assisting wherever needed. His drive and motivation were contagious, sparking inspiration in those around him, including the festival’s organizers. Despite the physical and mental exhaustion that comes with producing a large-scale event, the presence of someone so passionate reminded everyone why they were there in the first place: to bring art to the community and to create lasting relationships.

After the festival, Shayne’s role continued to evolve. The relationships and connections he made during those early days turned into opportunities. He soon found himself managing projects for other artists who had participated in the festival. One of those projects was the 2018 mural in the Edenvale community, where Shayne’s work added a burst of color to the area, transforming not just a building, but the way the community interacted with their environment.

The Roosevelt Mural stands as a monumental work of art, not just for its physical size—measuring 77 feet tall and 125 feet long—but for the deep symbolism it represents within the community. Located at the Roosevelt Park Apartments, the mural’s central element, the towering Elephant Cactus, is both a visual anchor and a powerful metaphor for the community’s resilience and strength. The Elephant Cactus, or Cardon, is one of the largest and most impressive plants native to the Baja California landscape, growing up to 70 feet tall. Its massive presence in the mural serves as a tribute to the endurance of the residents in one of San Jose’s oldest neighborhoods, whose histories and struggles are woven into the fabric of the mural itself.

This artwork is more than a simple aesthetic addition to the building’s exterior. It tells the story of survival and adaptation—qualities shared by the neighborhood’s diverse population. The mural's composition transitions from the ocean to the west, representing the Pacific coast, to the desert to the east, bridging the gap between California and Baja California. It’s a narrative of the environment, a visual celebration of the natural beauty found in the region, and a reminder of the deep connection between the people and the land they inhabit.

The mural also reflects the local biodiversity, with vibrant colors and intricate details depicting the flora and fauna native to the area. But it’s the human element—the people interacting with the environment—that really grounds the mural in the community’s spirit. Among these figures is a 1964 Impala lowrider, a nod to the strong Mexican-American “Chicano” demographic that defines the area. This inclusion not only honors the cultural heritage of the neighborhood but also illustrates how art can unite past, present, and future through visual storytelling.

At its core, the mural speaks to the resilience of all the community’s demographics—how they’ve endured hardships and challenges, yet continue to adapt and survive. It’s a symbol of strength, hope, and the collective power of the people in San Jose’s Roosevelt neighborhood.

San Jose Walls doesn’t just beautify a city—it creates lasting relationships and foster a sense of shared purpose. Working on large-scale projects like the Roosevelt Mural often leads to more than just professional collaborations. It forms a network of mentors and mentees, a community of artists who build each other up, share knowledge, and contribute to one another’s growth. Shayne Oseguera’s involvement in the San Jose Walls Mural Festival was just the beginning of this type of artistic collaboration.

As an emerging artist, Shayne quickly found that being part of the festival was about more than just showcasing his work. It was an opportunity to learn from established artists, connect with curators, and grow as a professional in the mural arts scene. In turn, he became a mentor himself, sharing his experiences and lessons with other artists, including those who were just starting their careers.

The beauty of these mural festivals lies in their ability to bring people together—artists, community members, and organizers alike. Over time, these gatherings form a sense of camaraderie that extends well beyond the festival's dates. For example, Shayne’s role in the Roosevelt Mural project was not just as an artist but also helping to coordinate efforts with other artists and ensure that the vision for the mural was realized. His journey from a festival participant to a key figure in major projects underscores how mentorship and collaboration are integral to the growth of the arts scene.

These festivals and the lasting friendships they foster have a ripple effect that impacts more than just the artists themselves. They contribute to the broader cultural landscape, enriching the city and providing future generations of artists with the support, guidance, and opportunity they need to thrive.

The Roosevelt Mural stands as a testament to the lasting impact of art in our communities. It’s not just a striking visual on the side of a building; it’s a living, breathing part of the fabric of San Jose—a place where history, culture, and creativity come together to tell a story of strength, resilience, and unity. What began as a vision during the 2017 mural festival has blossomed into a lasting legacy, not only for the artists involved but for the entire city.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that murals like the Roosevelt Mural will continue to inspire and shape the cultural landscape of San Jose. They act as beacons, guiding us toward a more vibrant, inclusive, and creative community. And as these works of art continue to grow, evolve, and be appreciated by new generations, so too will the bonds forged through these shared experiences.

For those who haven’t yet had the chance to see the Roosevelt Mural, it’s a must-visit. It’s a place to reflect on the strength of the community, the beauty of the art, and the power of murals to transform not just walls, but lives. As we continue to support artists and public art projects, we’re investing in a richer, more connected future for all.

Location: corner of East Santa Clara and North 21st Streets.

Thank you to our team for your support in making this installation happen!
Marc Wallace, Haley Cardamon, Stacey Kellogg, Jennifer Ahn, Stephen Longoria

Final photos by Lan Nguyen

Connections Beyond Home

Hello friends,

First off, a big thank you to everyone who’s been following along with our blog and staying up to date on what’s happening in our world—whether that’s art, life, or a bit of both. It's hard to believe we've been doing this for 17 years now, but I guess, like a fine wine, we’re getting better with time. That said, we wouldn't mind being a bottle of good ol' two-buck chuck. Remember when you could snag a bottle of that? It’s practically a treasure these days. Those bottles would disappear faster than you could say "art gallery vibes," and it’s those memories that we cherish from our old space—the perfect mix of great deals, great people, and an atmosphere full of artistic energy.

As we continue to grow, new things are always on the horizon, especially as we connect with artists near and far. One of the things we love most is working with artwork that not only brings us joy but also resonates with others. The sleepless nights are worth it when we see that our work impacts others the same way. There's something special about being in a physical gallery space, connecting with real people, and creating a space where they can explore and enjoy art.

Visit to Espokyo, shortly after seeing Lady Gaga get out of a taxi cab one block away from the main strip in Harijuku . Espo was making art while in the gallery, and takes time to chat with us.

Curating art shows and products that might one day become personal treasures (or even collectibles) is something we take a lot of pride in. It's why we’re so excited to share that we recently visited Stephen Espo Powers at his new space, Espokyo, in Tokyo. For those of you who might not be familiar, Espo’s career took off with graffiti in Philly, and his lettering and sign painting has since made its mark in cities around the world. He's worked on public art projects and even landed in museums, but we first met him years ago at the White Walls Gallery for his solo exhibition. That show was bombed with tags, throw-ups, and more tags—art everywhere, and we loved it. Right in the center of the room was a mountain of tires that echoed the vibes we’d find in Philly. Espo was also featured in the Beautiful Losers film and was a participating artist in the exhibition.

After checking out the exhibit, we stepped outside for some fresh air, and—no surprise—Espo and Mike Giant were walking up the street. We had to ask them for signatures, so we handed them a brown Trader Joe’s paper bag filled with leftover beer from the opening the night before. Classic move, right? I’m pretty sure they both had a beer on us, though to be honest, those days are a bit of a blur. Not long after, fans started showing up with their black books to get autographs. It was one of those moments where everything just clicked—a raw, unforgettable experience of getting a bag signed by two graffiti legends.

Before our visit to Espokyo, we ran into him at the SF MOMA for a solo exhibition. On that occasion, Espo generously handed us a zine of his latest publication, Free Ideas Must First Escape the Pen, straight out of his leather bag. This zine is a mind dump—sketchbook pages full of thousands of ideas and punchlines that might make you contemplate life or crack you up. We’re excited to have this zine available at Empire Seven Studios now, so swing by and pick one up—along with a cup of coffee from Tono Coffee.

Along with the zine, we have some other fun items for sale in the shop—sticker packs, pins, limited-edition zines, and pens. We hope these items bring a little joy your way, and, bonus, we’ve covered the shipping fees, so no need to worry about that.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. Whether it’s here on the blog or in the shop, we look forward to seeing you soon!

Espo’ s Tokyo Bedtime Story City Hunt Stamps, one way to find cool things happening in Tokyo. Legitimate signage throughout Tokyo neighborhoods.

Message from Juan Carlos Araujo of Empire Seven Studios

Celebrating 17 Years of Art, Resilience, and Community in San Jose

As we mark our 17th year anniversary, we’re filled with deep gratitude and a sense of pride. Over the years, our gallery has become a cornerstone of the San Jose art scene; curating free exhibitions and over 100 public art projects that highlight the voices of artists both locally and globally. This milestone is not just about looking back—it’s about celebrating how far we’ve come and the exciting possibilities ahead.

A New Chapter in 2022: Rebuilding and Thriving

One of the most pivotal moments in our history came in 2022, when we faced the challenge of losing our original gallery space to development. But rather than bowing to the pressures of change, we leaned into it, finding a unique opportunity to continue our work in a new, vibrant location in San Jose’s Japantown. Through collaboration and perseverance, we built a partnership with the developers that allowed us to secure a retail space for our gallery to thrive once again. This transition wasn’t just about a physical move—it marked a renewal of our commitment to the community, the artists we represent, and the vision we’ve held since day one.

Celebrating with Art: The Empire Seven Studios Flag

As part of our anniversary celebration, we had the privilege of commissioning Designer Tomomi Ito to create a design inspired by the flag used by firefighters during the Edo period in Japan—a nod to history, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to community. Designed in collaboration with Empire Seven Studios, this piece was not only a tribute to our 17 years of existence, but also a symbol of the resilience and unity that defines our gallery. It’s become something I’m particularly proud of, and I’m excited to share it with all of you as part of our ongoing celebration.

A Global Vision, Rooted Locally

While we’ve had the honor of representing countless talented artists from all over the world, our heart remains deeply rooted in San Jose. The diverse and dynamic artistic community here continues to fuel us—pushing us to create spaces for new voices, new ideas, and new ways to experience art. The journey we’ve taken together with our artists, patrons, and partners has been transformative, and we continue to work towards a future that amplifies the voices of underrepresented artists, fosters creativity, and nurtures collaboration.

Looking Forward: To the Future of Art in San Jose

As we move forward, we are more excited than ever about what the next chapter holds. Our commitment to curating innovative, original exhibitions and creating opportunities for artists to thrive remains steadfast. We look forward to continuing to work with artists who trust us to elevate their careers and create lasting connections with the community. The art scene in San Jose is more vibrant than ever, and we are proud to be a part of its evolution.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years. Here’s to 17 years of resilience, creativity, and community—and to many more!

Digging Sound Collect Book Info releasing this Saturday, February 8 @ Empire Seven Studios!

Digging Sound Collect Volume 4 by Abraham Menor, highlights vinyl collectors from all corners of the map, with a wide range of musical genres represented. This volume returns to the original format of volume 1, maintaining the simple iconic black-and-white layout. We’re also thrilled to feature a special introduction by Sue Problema, a collector who was previously featured in Volume 3. This book, which began its journey in 2022, includes 27 collectors and 196 pages of stunning, intimate photography.

300 limited run - 7" x 8.5", 196 pages 100lb, perfect bound, gloss soft cover, bw print

Price: $35
To reserve your copy, email us at info@empiresevenstudios.com otherwise they will be available at the opening Saturday, February 8 from 6:00-9:00pm.

Book Intro:

“In the world of record collecting, the journey often begins as a solitary pursuit. Yet, the last three volumes of Digging Sound Collective underscore a profound truth—this seemingly individualistic hobby has the power to forge communities. Collecting records isn’t merely about amassing physical artifacts, it’s a journey of discovery and connection. Every collector I’ve met embodies this spirit a desire to share their passion for music and to connect with others who share the same passion. Abe's ongoing project is a testament to this communal spirit.

Regardless of our geographical locations, we find ourselves connecting with fellow enthusiasts, be it the knowledgeable record sellers, DJs at clubs and parties, the collectors you bump into at yard sales and flea markets, the selectors who share their mixes online. These are the people who trade and share their finds and each encounter enriches our shared stories. Through Abe's camera lens, he captures not just images, but moments of quiet revelation and curiosity. His work seeks to immortalize these shared experiences and preserve them for posterity.

Several months ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Skeme Richards in San Antonio. I was honored to be featured in the same volume of Digging Sound Collective with him. Skeme's deep passion for rare funk 45s resonates strongly with me. This connection, facilitated by Abe's extensive network of collectors, has cultivated further bonds. Through shared experiences, friendships have blossomed, sparking conversations that have significantly enriched my journey as a collector.

As Abe hoped, this project endures as an underground classic, celebrated within the close-knit culture of vinyl collectors - a testament to the enduring power of music, community, and the art of storytelling through interviews and images.”

Sue Problema

—---
”We created photographic memories woven around cherished records. As the music played, we engaged in heartfelt conversations, sharing our passion for the art of digging and collecting. We delved into the significance of sound and its profound influence on our lives. Amidst laughter, food, and drink, we explored deeper connections, discovering a shared bond within the community of Digging Sound Collect.”

Abraham Menor



Thank you for joining us celebrate th Year of the Snake!

Empire Seven Studios X Tono Coffee Project collaboration at Exhibit Jtown!

Thank you to everyone who came out to support #JapantownSJ Lunar New Year as we celebrate the year of the wood snake!

A special thank you to (IG handles below):
• @sour_lemin @steponhen painting the windows
• @losritmoscalientes for spinning records
• @mogu.curry for setting up your delicious food
• @zonkeytoys for your hard work coordinating with participating businesses

For anyone who missed out in getting a Fukubukuro bag, there are still a few left at Empire Seven Studios. It’s not too late to get one during business hours!

Happy Lunar New Year!

As we celebrate year of the snake, come visit San Jose Japantown this Saturday, February 1!
Visit all participating stores for your chance to buy a fukubukuro mystery bag!

Empire Seven Studios x Tono Coffee Project will be collectively activating Exhibit Jtown so don’t forget to walk down on 7th Street!

Saturday, February 8, 2025 - “Digging Sound Collect” - Photography exhibit and book release by Abraham Menor

This special event will feature a photo exhibition by Abraham Menor from Digging Sound Collect Volume 4, which highlights vinyl collectors from around the world, showcasing a broad spectrum of musical genres. Returning to the original format of the first volume, this edition maintains the iconic black-and-white design. First conceived in 2022, the book includes 27 collectors and 196 pages of stunning, intimate photography.

Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to view the exhibited photos and be the first to purchase the book.

Dj sets by Flipside Lovers JBTS Sleepwalk

Opening reception: Saturday, February 8, 2025 6pm-9pm
Exhibit on view: February 8 - March 1, 2025

Empire Seven Studios
525 N 7th Street, Suite 10
San Jose, CA 95112

SAVE THE DATE! ART SALE at E7S!

Don’t miss your opportunity to purchase original artworks for that special someone, which can be you of course! This is a once-a-year event and you won’t want to miss out! Additionally, there will be selected merchandise on sale! Stock up on art books, puzzles, prints, ceramics and more!

Black Friday Sale at E7S!

🛍️ Your weekend plans: Art, discounts, and good vibes. 
Discounts on selected books, t-shirts, hats and more! Start your holiday shopping early and come pick up something special and unique!

🔉Don’t miss our Black Friday Sale! 🎨 
📆 Friday Nov 29 and Saturday Nov 30

📍Empire Seven Studios
525 N 7th St suite 10, San Jose, CA 95112