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
This Saturday! November 9, 2024 Come Celebrate “Birthday Party”
“Birthday Party” - Art Show and Skate Event celebrating the 1 year anniversary of Jacuzzi Unlimited
Date - November 9, 2024
Time - 4:00-9:00pm
Crossthread has teamed up to bring sounds from Big Boy, Doomsday and Stand Tall
Sponsored by: Converse
Beverage provided by: Shindig Cider and Drink Weird
Exhibition Announcement: Nychos at Empire Seven Studios, San Jose
Empire Seven Studios is thrilled to present Selachimorpha, a solo exhibition by internationally acclaimed Austrian artist Nychos. Known for his visceral and highly detailed dissection and translucent styles, Nychos has made a powerful impact on the art world, and this show revisits one of his most iconic creations, while unveiling new and exclusive works to be shown alongside some classics.
In Selachimorpha, Nychos pays tribute to the 2019 mural he originally created for the San Jose Sharks, an unforgettable tribute to the city's beloved hockey team. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a brand new painting, which shares the exhibition's title and pays homage to the original mural.
The exhibition also features a selection of never-before-seen treasures, including intricate pieces rendered on layered glass that add a new dimension to his signature translucent and dissection style. All of the artworks focus on animals that hold a deep personal significance to Nychos, showcasing his fascination with the raw anatomy and inner workings of nature's most fascinating creatures.
In addition to the visual experience, Selachimorpha will offer an exclusive limited edition art print, also titled Selachimorpha. Link HERE to purchase.
Visitors to the opening will also have the opportunity to pre-purchase Nychos' upcoming print, Jaws.
Selachimorpha is not just an exhibition - it is a deep dive into the complex world of one of the most innovative urban artists of our time. Join us at Empire Seven Studios to witness this extraordinary blend of art and visceral beauty.
Opening Date:
Location: Empire Seven Studios - 525 N 7th Street, suite 10, San Jose, CA 95112
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Exhibit on view: October 12 - November 2, 2024
Collectors interested in artwork, please email info@empiresevenstudios.com
We look forward to seeing you there!
Empire Seven Studios
http://www.empiresevenstudios.com / @empire7studios
SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, October 12 from 6-9pm - “SELACHIMORPHA” works by NYCHOS
Collectors interested in artwork, please email info@empiresevenstudios.com
Stay tuned for more info coming soon!
ARTIST BIO:
Breaking surfaces, seeking depths – layer by layer. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, NYCHOS
creates art in order to examine a question that has always been with him: How deep can you go?
NYCHOS is an alter ego, created by a kid who grew up amidst a clash of cultures: A world, where
Austrian Tradition and its Hunting Culture meets Eighties Pop Culture, Comic and Television. The
visual input from back then still contributes to the output of the adult.
By the means of anatomy, NYCHOS investigates the living species across different contexts and
different media. His favorite tool is the spray can, his favorite surface is large. Questioning contrasts,
he unifies looseness and accuracy. Severity and irony. The inner and the outer world. The dark and
the bright. And most importantly, life and death. Within his oeuvre, one embraces the other. All
becomes one.
NYCHOS creates art from deep within his soul. Deeply rooted in Graffiti and shaped by the visual
inputs of his early years, his work comprises murals, fine art, illustrations, sculptures and animations.
NYCHOS is the founder of Rabbit Eye Movement, co-founder of THE WEIRD and member of the
LORDS crew. His artworks have been exhibited worldwide and his large-scale murals give character
to cities all across the globe. He currently lives and works both in Vienna, Austria and Los Angeles,
California.
Save the date - Saturday, October 5 from 6-9pm - “Lenin’s Advice” new works by Mike Stefanski
We look forward to you joining us Saturday, October 5, from 6:00-9:00 pm. The exhibit will be on view through October 5-26, 2024.
If you’re interested in purchasing artworks before we open the doors, please send us an email at info@empiresevenstudios.com.
ARTIST STATEMENT:
“The title of this show, “Lenin’s Advice,” stems from a conversation I had six months ago during a tour of the new Skydeck Gallery with Lenin, a team member of E7S. After sharing a portfolio of my early and current works, he offered me a simple piece of advice: to incorporate elements from my earlier works into my current creations. This suggestion resonated deeply with me and sparked a wave of inspiration. For any artist, inspiration—no matter how small—is invaluable, as it fuels creativity.
Motivated by Lenin’s advice, I began experimenting with blending elements from my past works with my new pieces. While the results were not always successful, this exploration opened new avenues for future projects, though I recognize they will require further refinement and technique.
One piece that emerged directly from Lenin’s guidance is titled “Dinner Night.” This work effectively integrates elements from my earlier creations and lays the groundwork for future explorations. The other pieces in this exhibition reflect my ongoing journey with illustration and structured abstraction—approaches I’m still working to fully realize as I experiment with different techniques, subjects, and palettes.
Thank you for taking the time to visit and engage with my work. I hope it resonates with you and is worth your time. Cheers!” - Mike Stefanski
"IN LIMBO" by Danilo Parra opens this Saturday, September 7
FORWARD FROM EMPIRE SEVEN STUDIOS:
Danilo Parra was born and raised in San Jose and comes from a family of musical creatives. Danilo is best known for his award-winning filmmaking but has always painted as well. In 2020, he leaked a body of work on Instagram that certainly had us intrigued. If you’re reading the top art magazines, you will see that Danilo’s work would fit right in due to its originality and humorous nature.
Danilo’s film credentials list a broad range of clients such as Weezer, A$AP Rocky, Spike Jonze, Robyn, Honne, David Byrne and several other celebrities like Adam Driver with whom he recently worked.
"In Limbo" will feature a collection of oil paintings Danilo hauled in a suitcase from New York. We’re thrilled to be the Gallery to host Danilo’s first solo art exhibition. We are honored to work with this multifaceted artist who has roots in San Jose.
We look forward to you joining us this Saturday, September 7, from 6:00-9:00 pm. The exhibit will be on view through October 5, 2024.
If you’re interested in purchasing artworks before we open the doors, please send us an email at info@empiresevenstudios.com.
SHORT WRITE UP FOR THE 'IN LIMBO' EXHIBITION:
Danilo Parra is a Chilean-American artist and filmmaker who creates oil paintings as single-frame stories. Beginning his artistic journey in San Jose, Danilo later moved to New York to pursue documentary storytelling, a career that allowed him to explore the world and deeply observe cultural and environmental issues—insights he now weaves into his paintings. His show, "In Limbo," captures characters in moments of transition, using dark, moody palettes contrasted with vivid colors to highlight the tension between hope and despair, intimacy and isolation. These ambiguous settings invite viewers to immerse themselves into the narrative.
ARTIST STATEMENT:
"My brain works in story. I struggle to understand visual art that doesn't have a beginning, middle, or end. When I try to paint a pretty picture, I end up painting over it until I uncover a deeper narrative that has stronger meaning to me." - Danilo Parra
"Trash Flowers" exhibit and book release by Jai Tanju
ART EXHIBITION AND BOOK RELEASE
DATE/TIME:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 - 6:00-9:00PM
LOCATION:
SKYDECK GALLERY, 4TH FLOOR @ EXHIBIT JTOWN BY EMPIRE SEVEN STUDIOS
525 N 7TH STREET, SAN JOSE, CA 95112
FORWARD BY EMPIRE SEVEN STUDIOS:
Photographer Jai Tanju has been documenting San Jose for decades. You have most likely seen him roaming on his bike always with a camera, venturing into areas where most won’t frequent. Over the past 4 years, we’ve run into Jai while painting murals on the Guadalupe River Park Gardens. The Guadalupe River trail is frequently used for bikers, walkers, joggers but also known for having many skate spots. Although trash tends to be a large occurring issue, if you take a moment to observe, you will see incredible and resilient wildlife.
Jai’s latest photography book will feature over 20 years of documenting the Guadalupe River trail while walking his beloved dog Frida. As Jai and I talked about this body of work and the upcoming installation details for the book release, we shared our river trail experiences and landed on a common concern of how neglected this natural resource suffers from traumatic impacts. Trash is a massive eyesore on the river, and no matter how much volunteers help clean it up there is still so much work to be done.
We can only imagine how this place looked before it was colonized. In hindsight, you can think of Jai’s photos similar to a child’s imagination; creating something to play with. The trash piling on tree branches, sticks and twigs seem similar to finding beauty in something so painful. Promoting the event has led us to having conversations about how this body of work could be used to call out the issues and struggles the river faces. Without intending to advocate, and create awareness, Jai has merely captured moments in time, highlighting an observation many could relate to.
Jai has immersed himself into his work and if you’re lucky the work will go far beyond what was supposed to just be a photograph. It can now be a story that needs to be shared with anyone who wants to see the Guadalupe River Park Trail and Gardens thrive.
- Juan Carlos Araujo
ARTIST STATEMENT:
The Trash Flowers book is a 20 year documentation of the Guadalupe River that runs through downtown San Jose. It wasn’t a serious project when I started walking Frida there around 2007, more just observations that built up over the years that became a bit of an obsession when I discovered the actual Trash Flowers which I religiously looked for after every flood accrued…
The Idea was respired in the winter of 2022 with its historic rainfall and a chance storage find of an old cd by the Mumlers “Thickets & Stitches” & the song Red River Hustle which embodies life here in San Jose at that time.
I am having a Book release party & exhibition at the Skydeck gallery which is on the fourth floor of the Exhibit apartments where Empire Seven Studios is located. My beautiful amazing wife Blanche will be hosting a chill party on the patio with some snacks, drinks and music!
The book is 108 pages of color/black & white photographs with a perfect bind. It also comes with a bonus iPhone zine & insert of my project called FlightPath. It will be available at the opening on August 30th & online on my booksbyjai big cartel shop on September 1st.
We hope to see you there!
Jai Tanju
Special thanks to: @bgo____ @empire7studios @ed.templeton @mattsharkeyphoto & @fotoexpressfilm @willsprott
J.Duh "Starting Fires" at Empire Seven Studios this Saturday, August 10th!
Jorge Camacho, aka J.DUH, is a San Jose artist who has been visiting Empire Seven Studios since he was a teenager. Back then, we didn’t really know each other, but years later, we talked about those early visits and even found photos capturing the memory of a young artist having a memorable experience at our original venue.
In recent years, especially during the pandemic, we had the chance to collaborate with Jorge on a project for Yahoo, the tech icon of Silicon Valley. Some may still remember the television commercials with the famous yodel slogan. Jorge has a natural ability to connect with people and leave a lasting impression. It’s no surprise that we recently partnered for the 6th Annual San Jose Day, curating an art exhibition with 100 artists.
Over time, we’ve been honored to hear Jorge express how much he learns from the Empire Seven Studios team. Given his extensive experience in the arts community, we’re always flattered and excited to share knowledge and guidance with younger generations finding their path in the arts.
Jorge is a full-time artist who excels in various areas, including hand lettering, graphic design, branding, and curation. Many artists struggle to balance being creatively flexible for clients with pursuing their own artistic journey. Jorge, however, has managed to blend both, creating work for clients while staying true to his storytelling through art.
Inviting Jorge to have a solo exhibition was refreshing. His enthusiasm reminded us why we support both emerging and established talent. Making someone’s dream come true is both enlightening and surreal.
Jorge recently completed his course at The Academy at Goodby, Silverstein & Partners in San Francisco, CA. Fresh out of ad school, he naturally thought about ads when planning his show. He wanted to apply everything he learned from The Academy.
Matchbooks were traditionally used as promotional items for businesses. Jorge decided to create matchbook artwork featuring ads for both fictional and real businesses. His collection will be interactive and nostalgic for anyone who has ever struck a match. These super-sized pieces are sure to spark conversation when friends and family visit, enjoying the playful and interactive artworks on the walls.
We look forward to you joining us this Saturday, August 10th, from 6:00-9:00 pm. The exhibit will be on view through August 31, 2024.
If you’re interested in purchasing artworks before we open the doors, please send us an email at info@empiresevenstudios.com.
“THIS IS HOW WE CHILL” art night at E7S - Wednesday, July 24 from 5:00-8:00pm
Flyer by Stephen Longoria
Creatives have been requesting meeting up at Empire Seven Studios where artists could gather and create together.
Bring your sketch pads, knitting kits, coloring book, or sculpt putty and take a seat amongst several others fellow artisans to inspire one another or not.
This event is FREE and open to anyone daring to interact in person. There will be beverages, snacks, and a speaker playing tunes.
We are not ramping up for the best, or greatest event, on the contrary this will be the most chill thing you’ve attended in years.
Hype yourself up and bring a friend to make art, please RSVP HERE to reserve your spot and let us know you’re coming.
E7S x Haz Calligraphy new merch in time for Japantown's Obon Festival celebration!
Empire Seven Studios X Haz Calligraphy is launching two new limited edition t-shirts with Kanji designs created by Rifū Hazu; just in time for this weekend’s Japantown Obon Festival!
FIRST DESIGN: Front: in Kanji “Hella” (representative of the “Bay Area”) / Back: “San Jose Japantown”
SECOND DESIGN: Front: “Empire Seven Studios” / Back: “San Jose Japantown”
About Haz Calligraphy:
Rifū Hazu, born in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, started doing calligraphy at the age of four. While studying in Los Angeles, she discovered the allure of Japanese culture in America, sparking her aspiration to become a calligrapher. Since then, she has refined her skills, showcasing her works in exhibitions worldwide and creating corporate logos and calligraphy gifts. To read more about Rifū’s visit to San Jose this past May, link to blog HERE
We will be launching this Saturday/Sunday 12-8pm or pre-order yours HERE Regular gallery hours Tuesday-Saturdays 12-8pm
From PDX to SJ
in art
Join us Saturday June 8, 2024 from 6:00-9:00pm for the opening reception of “From PDX to SJ.” Bring your own beverage and hang out in the Exhibit Jtown patio!
Ryan Bubnis, a San Jose Walls 2019 alumni and one time Gilroy resident, has always had a connection to the South Bay. Despite moving to Portland, Ryan kept in touch with Bay Area friends and family over the years. We still remember during our first visit to Portland and connecting with Ryan to visit his home studio many moons ago. Collaborating with Ryan has always been a delight. When we reached out to him to ask him if he’d like to have a solo exhibition at Empire Seven Studios, he forfeited the opportunity to instead share the space with the artist friends he made over the years in Portland. The group of artists exhibiting for the month of June are making an impact everywhere they go: their creativity and talent has resulted in collaborations with clothing brands, tech companies, film makers, and the continued resilient DIY community.
From PDX to SJ brings together seven Portland-based image makers, all connected through skateboarding, music, printmaking, zines, and the independent DIY culture that Portland, Oregon has long been known for. This exhibition will feature the works of Briana Spencer, Erik Railton, Estee Preda, Lori D., Molly Mendoza, and Nathan McKee; curated by Ryan Bubnis.
Collectors interested in artwork on display can email us at info@empiresevenstudios.com for a price list.
About the Artists:
Brianna Spencer’s work drew upon her family’s culture, street art, and folk traditions to execute her illustrative style. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. She was known for her sense of humor, kindness, and generosity. As an artist, she shared her heart and instilled her personality into everything she created. Her art was personal and it always left us in awe of how willing she was to share a piece of her heart. She gave glimpses into her daily life through her work, especially with the people she loved the most, George and Ene.
Erik Railton is a self taught painter with 24 years of experience. In his formative years on the Oregon coast, he found himself spending most of his time outdoors. The color, texture and shapes of what he sees in the natural world were influences in his paintings. The imagery of his paintings lives in the space between abstract and representational and the colors are bold and graphic. Through shifts in color ranges of contrasting colors he attempts to create something familiar and beautiful. He has shown in galleries in Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco. His client list includes Adidas, Columbia and Emerica
Estée Preda, as a child, was read Hans Christian Andersen and Brothers Grimm fairy tales every night by her mother who escaped the iron curtain. She lived across the hall from her grand-mother who was prone to night terrors. She would watch out the window from her home as one season would slowly turn into another. The world that her art exists in lies somewhere between those ephemeral seasons, night terrors and folk tales.
Lori Damiano works and plays in the realms of animation, illustration, murals, surface design, advertising, packaging, apparel, film-making, fine art, fiber art, and education. She is an independent animator with 20 years of experience working for a wide range of clients and directors including Spike Jonze, Lance Bangs, Davis Guggenheim, Greg Hunt, and Ted Passon. She recently illustrated a picture book called ‘Shorty’s Ark’ written by musician Will Oldham based on a song he wrote with Matt Sweeney for their Superwolves album. Lori D. Is also known for her involvement making art, zines, and films documenting female skateboarders since the late nineties with the skateboarding collective Villa Villa Cola. Lori Damiano received a BA in Media Studies: Film/Video from UCSD and an MFA in Experimental Animation from CalArts.
Molly Mendoza is a Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator. Through their work, they explore the complex emotions of interpersonal relationships and self-love with a focus on layered visual storytelling, mark-making, and color. They write stories, they paint murals, they teach students, and they draw. Molly has worked for clients such as APWOT, The Atlantic, and The Marshall Project - made comics with Bulgilhan Press, Oni, and Nobrow - and has illustrated picture books for Scholastic, Chronicle Books, and Beach Lane Books. They are Eisner nominated, Ignatz winning, and have received a Caldecott Honor. They write stories, they paint murals, they teach students, and they draw.
Nathan McKee is an artist creating illustrations, sculptures, murals, and paper cutouts utilizing simple lines and flat color. He is inspired by growing up in the 80’s & by his time skateboarding, reading comics, and exploring album covers in his youth. HIs work is meant to trigger lost memories or to promote conversation of different points of view from the same image. His works have been included in exhibitions around the world and clients have included, but are not limited to, Bleacher Report, Adidas, Green Room, Gatorade, CCS, and Converse. McKee has studied at the Pacific Northwest College of Art.
Ryan Bubnis is a multidisciplinary artist, illustrator, educator, and muralist based in graphics,public artworks, and more.Equally influenced by Do-It-Yourself culture, art history, The Pacific Northwest, and the natural world. He explores themes of presence, connection, and the shared human experience. Pared-down shapes, textures, paKerns, and bold colors combine to inspire a sense of calm, curiosity, accessibility, and introspection.Ryan has collaborated with a number of commercial clients and agencies, and his work has been exhibited across the U.S. and abroad. Bubnis received a BFA in Illustration from the Pacific Northwest College of Art.
Stance socks represents expression and embraces the spirit of individuality through a unique product which features a collaborative series with artists.
Stance has generously donated 100 pairs of their solid socks in support of “FROM PDX TO SJ”
Come early to get a free pair, while supplies last (one per person).
Molly Mendoza will be doing a book signing and live drawing portraits (only 12 slots available!)
Empire Seven Studios recently launched its International Artist in Residence Program in collaboration with Exhibit Jtown
Empire Seven Studios Launches International Artist in Residence Program (IARP) with Japanese Artists Haz Calligraphy and Tomomi Ito
Empire Seven Studios recently launched its International Artist in Residence Program in collaboration with Exhibit Jtown Apartments. Since the inception of our new home, we have intended to create and construct partnerships through programming, inherently adapting connections we have made with artists from every corner of the world. These relationships have been formed and nurtured through our work both as an art gallery and mural producers for over a decade.
Haz Calligraphy and Tomomi Ito (aka Tomo), both Japanese artists based in Tokyo, visited San Jose after a strong bond and connection was established many years ago. Last winter, while Juan Carlos Araujo was traveling through Japan, the trio reconnected. What started as an idea for calligraphy merchandise designs resulted in these two amazing artists sharing their culture and paying homage to the global connections we all share as human beings on this planet. No matter where we live, our universe wants to unify us as people.
Rifū Hazu, born in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, started doing calligraphy at the age of four. While studying in Los Angeles, she discovered the allure of Japanese culture in America, sparking her aspiration to become a calligrapher. Since then, she has refined her skills, showcasing her works in exhibitions worldwide and creating corporate logos and calligraphy gifts. Her pieces are characterized by strong, yet soft lines. Striving to make calligraphy more accessible not only to Japanese but also to people from around the world, she has branded her work as "HAZ Calligraphy," drawing inspiration from her surname, "HAZU."
Tomo, an agency art director and graphic designer, has collaborated on projects for major companies in Japan and abroad. Inspired by traditional Japanese festivals since childhood, her art, showcased with Rifū in San Jose, reflects her passion for Japanese culture.
Rifū and Tomo performed a memorable ceremonial experience for a small audience at Exhibit Jtown, one that has been passed down for generations. The emotional performance, which evoked harmony, wisdom, beauty, and zen, left the audience in awe. The artists painted two canvases in real time with the accompanying sounds of Taiko, performed by Roy & PJ Hirabayashi, founders of San Jose Taiko. Taiko set the mood for every motion, as if it was a musical score to a film. There was no time for rehearsals and if you were present you would think this was all premeditated with how in unison and synced Rifū’s sweeping, flowing brush strokes spanned across the canvas to the music. The Japanese instruments Wadaiko (drum), Shakuhachi (flute), and meditation chimes balanced her body, hyperextending with every spontaneous motion.
Each paint stroke was a sacred moment with her Futofude, a thicker traditional calligraphy brush. A real rogue artist, Rifū used a wooden rice bowl Sushi Oke as her paint palette.
Tomo painted an arrangement of cherry blossoms in Ikebana style, an ancient, traditional Japanese painting style, calling to spirits and honoring the art of refinement, adding flowers known as Yoshino to call on the gods. The Yorishiro ceremony, like many of our Native cultures represented in San Jose, share similar connections to mother earth, mountains, rain, wind, and animals that regenerate our souls through spiritual power. Tomo, who is involved with festivals back home in Japan, practices her heritage beyond painting, as she jumped in and performed Taiko improvising with Rifū, Roy & PJ.
The experience of witnessing artists collaborate so organically truly embodies the artistry of improvisation. Art forms with sacred intentions meant to heal and inspire can only leave the viewer with a lasting impression and recognition of how important ancient cultures and teachings can give us hope outside of the contemporary present. Rifū & Tomo’s captivating performance set the bar for the future of the International Artist in Residence program (IARP) at Empire Seven Studios.
Rifū also created several Kanji designs that will launch in Summer 2024 during Japantown’s Obon Festival. Definitely keep an eye out for this capsule release that will honor San Jose and the Japantown neighborhood. Tomo helped design our new Toro lanterns that hang outside our Gallery with custom Kani lettering scripture reading “Geido,” “The Way of Art,” “Path of Art,” and “Art of Life.” Stop by and take a photo with these beautiful pieces painted by a long-time Calligraphy Master based in Tokyo for the past hundred years.
Lodging for the residency program was provided by Exhibit Jtown Apartments. The canvases will be on display throughout the apartment complex, located at 525 N. Seventh St., for residents and visitors to enjoy.
“JAPANTOWN” by Stephen Longoria
Artist narrative:
My name is Stephen Longoria. I make art in a very graphic style. Not graphic in nature, but just heavily influenced by design. For this show, I’m making pieces dedicated for Japantown. It’s where my studio is and the place I love most in the Bay. I am able to hang with friends, make art and show my experiences of how I see and experience Japantown. This place is my second home from Tejas (Texas) and I love to be in it. Now y’all gonna see some weird shit!
Opening reception: May 11 from 6:00-9:00pm / Exhibit on view: May 11-June 1, 2024
SKY DECK GALLERY - 4th floor of Exhibit at J Town Apartments
Empire Seven Studios - 525 N 7th Street, Suite 10, San Jose, CA 95112
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12:00-8:00pm
#e7s #empiresevenstudios #artcollectors #gallery #e7s #buy #artworks #support #smallbusiness #artists #Japantown #JapantownSJ #SanJose #StephenLongoria
New Art Exhibition! “Celebrating Hayao Miyazaki”
“Celebrating Miyazaki”
Featuring a collection of works by various artists, each offering their own creative interpretation of a Miyazaki film or theme. This art exhibition celebrates the enduring legacy of Hayao Miyazaki, the visionary animator and co-founder of Studio Ghibli.
Join us for an artistic exploration of Miyazaki's world, a celebration of his imagination, and a reflection on the importance of environmentalism, themes that continue to inspire generations.
Co-curated with Lenin Olavarria, our talented gallery intern for the past year.
OPENING RECEPTION: May 11 from 6:00-9:00pm
EXHIBIT ON VIEW: May 11-June 1, 2024
Featured artists:
Klawd @klawd
Danielle Boinay @danielleboinay
Derick Fabian @7sketches
Drew Roulette @drewroulette
Genevieve Santos @le.petitelefant
Gustavo Venegas @bulimiccannibal
Irvin Pelayo @malicefemoid
Jennifer Ahn @kimchee_makes_art
Jenny Kimua @kawaiiglassco
Joel Angel @joeliavo
Joey Chiarello @demonsinmytea
Joshua Barrigada @joshuabarrigada
Kelly Yamagishi @nantoka_keiko
Kim Ryang @kimryxii
Kristen Ashley @kristenashleydesign
Kurt Salinas @fungies22
Laura Johnston @laurainspirit
Lenin Olavarria @sour_lemin
Leyla @bylxc
Malisa Suchanya @malisasuchanya
Mark Niegrete @manmademetal
Mary Crocker Cook @recoverykittyart
Nalisa Sahsethie @sweetdub63924
Nancy Ahn @nancy_ahn
Rhodora Jacob @rhododoodle
Shelly Swann @fairywulf
Skye Becker-Yamakawa @skyesartshop
Timothy Doyle @timothypdoyle
Youko Marian Horiuchi @youkonejo
New Spring E7S x Mr. 1777 T-shirt Release
Ricardo Montenegro Mr 1777, a local historian, and artist, celebrates the essence of San Jose culture since the city was born. His social media page highlights iconic leaders in the Chicano, Mexican revolution movements that played a significant role in what California represents; educating audiences with important and forgotten facts.
This new Spring collection is designed by Ricardo Montenegro in his signature. Cholo Tag style for Japantown, San Jose where Empire Seven Studios has thrived since 2008. Additionally, this serves as an inspired by the Cholo movement taking place in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan which originated from California.
Empire Seven Studios SkyDeck Gallery opens for the first time featuring new works by Nicholaus James Dalton
Sky Deck Gallery, a new gallery space located on the 4th floor of Exhibit at JTown Apartments, will have its grand opening during San Jose Day this Saturday April 6th from 12-6pm. The space, created to showcase and celebrate artists, features an outdoor patio overlooking the valley, with seating areas for guests to take in the view.
Artist Nicholaus James Dalton, also known as Manik, has been a part of Empire Seven Studios since its early days, where he built a music studio and remained a permanent tenant. Dalton decorated his studio with engraved records on the ceiling, kaleidoscope murals on the walls, and artwork inspired through meditation–all created by him. He even picked up spray painting, making some of the coolest street art no one but a chosen few would know. It was there where we started to see Dalton’s determination to pursue the visual arts, exploring many mediums until he landed on combining his tradeskills as a carpenter into his artwork. Over the years, after losing the studio, we parted ways. The irony couldn’t be better suited to presenting his second solo exhibition in the luxury apartment SkyDeck Gallery on the very location of Dalton’s former studio.
Dalton’s workshop, where he works with wood for a living, is also where his art has evolved. The day he discovered building a rig that would spin canvas vertically, he couldn't wait to share his creation. The first series of his paintings were created using spray paints, which he showcased at a solo exhibition. As curators, we encourage; as artists, we challenge ourselves to continue to seek excellence. Dalton has always followed his heart in doing what makes him happy and ultimately standing out from the rest. “Hold The Vision, Peace” is the newest of artworks painted on round custom canvases with an airbrush, where Dalton controls his painting technique and multiplies the use of colors. Nicholaus James Dalton is not the only one painting this motif, but we are witness to his creation being pure in its evolution. More importantly, we believe human connectivity is symbolic and relics are made by channeling energy that can connect us as people, no matter where we are.
“Hold The Vision, Peace”
Please join us to experience new works from Nicholaus James Dalton, aka Manik. Explore colors and combinations of the spectrum, concentrically. Hues are inspired by “Dream Colors” used in Nepalese thangka paintings.
“I manifest this art for the viewer to vibe out in a mediation or a visual hypnosis. Something that can relax and excite. The lines blend and create new visual stimuli.” The vibrations of energy can be felt with these large paintings with hundreds of concentric circles. The physical presence of this art needs to be seen in person for the full effects.
“I have been invited by my good friends at Empire Seven Studios to showcase my second solo art show. This is a personal push in the direction of deep thought and vision. I meditate and do constant blessings, burning copal and palo santo and playing music with my paintings, like a sacred ritual: it’s a vibe. Inspired by the words of a Nepalese thangka painter I befriended years ago, he explained the colors used are considered “Dream Colors” and that I should do that. That’s exactly what I did: I studied the thangka paintings that he gave me and started making my colors. Certain paintings I did are directly influenced by colors used in specific thangkas. A thangka is a Tibetan Buddhist painting usually depicting a Buddhist deity, scene, or mandala.”
-Nicholaus Dalton
The 6th Annual San José Day festival is coming to Japantown - Saturday April 6, 2024 12-6pm
The 6th Annual San José Day festival is coming to Japantown on Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 12-6pm. San José Day is a cultural festival celebrating the city's diverse arts and culture through live music, dance, art displays, a local business fair, and food. This year’s event features 80 vendors, multi-cultural performances, several music genres, food, live painting, and a visual arts exhibition featuring over 100 locals in our Gallery. Seventh Street between Empire & Jackson Streets will be closed for the event. We encourage visitors to arrive by public transportation or bike.
Empire Seven Studios continues to open up its space for creatives with determination and dedication. Haley Cardemon, Executive Director of San José Day, wanted to bring back the festival to the place where it all started in 2017, however the old cannery building on 9th and Taylor is no longer around. When it still existed, the building was a playground for street brands like Breezy Excursion, Clout Magazine, Pops Cycles, Booger Kids, and the legendary Phil Wood Co. Prior to these companies, the cannery was home to artist studios.
Juan Carlos Araujo, owner of Empire Seven Studios, co-founder of San José Walls, artist, and curator met Haley Cardamon on several occasions while painting walls in downtown San José. “Haley was persistent in showing up and always brought a great energy and positive attitude, expressing her eagerness to contribute, and volunteer at times. On one specific occasion she wanted to learn how to clear coat murals, Jennifer Ahn and Haley Cardamon sprayed over 2,000 square feet of wall, and they did magnificent. Experiences like that are what community, friendships, and camaraderie are built on,” Araujo says of Cardamon.
In 2023, Cardamon reached out to Jennifer Ahn, Director of Gallery Operations and Co-Curator at Empire Seven Studios to participate, ultimately deciding to bring the event in front of Empire Seven Studios and Exhibit at JTown Apartments. Empire Seven Studios reopened in 2022, and has already hosted hundreds of makers, vendors, artists, performers, and exceptional art exhibitions. In just one year they’ve picked up right where they left off, only now with additional wisdom.
San José Day performers will have accommodations at Exhibit at J Town Apartments; an event sponsor. Amenities at the recently built apartment building were intentionally designed to host events like this. Derek Allen, president of TriForge Capital, is beyond ecstatic that the partnership with Empire Seven Studios continues to contribute to the vibrancy of the Japantown neighborhood. JTown Clay will also join in on the festivities, recently opening up their newest pottery studio location directly across the street from the art gallery. There will be ceramic demonstrations along with ceramic artists selling their works. Japantown boutiques on Jackson Street like Cukui, Headliners, and Coterie Den will also participate in curating art shows at their store locations.
Anyone interested in collecting artwork by local artists will have an opportunity to purchase from many incredible 12”x12” multimedia canvases that can fit almost anywhere in your home or office. The exhibit was co-curated by Jorge Camacho, Creative Director of San Jose Day, and Empire Seven Studios’ Jennifer Ahn and Juan Carlos Araujo. Artists were asked to express themselves and to be representative of who they are as locals that make up the fabric of San José’s visual arts representation.
Empire Seven Studios will also be launching the grand opening of their new Sky Deck Gallery, located on the 4th floor of Exhibit at J Town Apartments, featuring new artworks by Nicholaus James Dalton in his exhibit titled “Concentric Spectrums.”
If you would like to purchase artwork before the big event, we recommend visiting during regular gallery/gift shop hours Tuesday-Friday 12-8pm. Bring the kids and invite the relatives! This is a great day to have people visit and venture to Japantown restaurants to dine, shop, explore, or hang out at the Beer Garden on what we hope will be a sunny San José Day!
SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, MARCH 9 from 4:00-7:00pm
“MOMENTS IN TIME connected exposures”
Photography by Jennifer Ahn @kimchee_creates_art / Vanessa Palafox @pfox35
How do you build resilience? Many people have various ways but for Jennifer Ahn and Vanessa Palafox, it is to be connected; through creativity, experiences, and people.
Jennifer Ahn enjoys experiencing the world through travel. With her recently published book “Through The Lens,” she will be exhibiting selected works that invite the viewer a glimpse into her travels. “By seeing the world, I am allowing myself to grow and expand my mind. I enjoy the experiences made along the way, being present and just living.” Originally from Chicago, Jennifer moved to San Jose in the late 80’s. A SJSU alumni, she received her BFA in Photography in 2000, with a minor in Graphic Design. Jennifer is co-curator of Empire Seven Studios and co-director of SJ Walls.
Vanessa Palafox, and most folks is known as Pfox, or their favorite barista. Showing her work at E7S brings lots of nostalgia from her time working at @roysstation. Pfox will share images she has captured of faces and places that may no longer be around, but they are still very much a part of San Jose’s fabric and DNA. Born and raised in San Jose, Pfox will be showing some of her favorite moments that became milestones of her career and understand the value in documenting what the community has collectively accomplished. Nowadays, Pfox is honing in on her video skills to continue telling compelling stories of communities she serves. Japantown @japantownsj , this show is for you!
Exhibit on view: March 9-29, 2024
This is in collaboration with “A Photo Night in Japantown”
A Photo Night in Japantown is an event created by Alex Knowbody and Abraham Menor who wanted to put together an event to showcase photography culture in our area and beyond. This is an event to gather folks to check out some really dope photography and to get to know photographers from here, there an everywhere! Here, they created and curated a mix of solo shows, group shows and a photo experience for all to enjoy!
Locations:
1. @empire7studios
2. @cukui
3. @coldwater.sj
4. @headliners
5. @lannynguyenphotography
6. @thecoterieden
7. @paradoxbarbers
8. @knowfuturegallery
Pacolli's POP UP SHOP February 10th, 2-8pm one of a kind silk screen printed apparel
Empire Seven Studios is thrilled for an installation of unique, wearable art fashion. As far as we can remember we have not experienced a showcase like this in our hometown. Pacolli prints all of the apparel on her own with a small squeegee freestyling and layering designs of characters she illustrates creating a story with each piece exploring possibilities without fear. “Wrap your troubles in dreams’”, “I wish I could talk in technicolor”, “stay true”, ”real life is magic (and tragic)”, “nothing special” (a nod to Andy Warhol) are just a few of the punchlines printed on the one of a kind clothing. Sleeves are equally covered in illustrations, the inside of hoodies are printed as well as the outside. All of the products are extremely limited, color combinations and the way each garment is printed is unique and tells a different story.
Pacolli’s Pop-Up collection is made up of bright, fluorescent colors: yellows, oranges, lime greens, pinks, and blues that intersect from the garments themselves and the fabric she chooses for each combo, and she's a master of her color choices.
When she chooses to print on black garments, the iridescent bright inks come to play and it's a whole different vibe. It’s the closest couture street wear that is not cut and sewn, and any designer would be lucky to have these artwork patterns mass produced in fabric. Hopefully Gucci will pick her up and we’ll get to talk about this in a few years. But here you're able tp get the 1/1 art pieces straight from her studio, people actually frame her garments and put them on their wall!
In the age of standing out, not fitting in and having something exclusive, this is the artworks you want to be wearing. Not a chance of bumping into anyone else wearing the same outfit and you'll most definitely stand out from the crowd.
Patricia Colli aka Pacolli is a Sao Paulo born and San Francisco based self-taught artist with a DIY go-getter mentality that’s motivated her to self publish zines, comics, slap up sticker bombs, shown in galleries from Brazil to Europe and all over the U.S., designed and produced apparel for fashion shows (Sao Paulo Fashion Week) and fashion art shows in galleries (like her first ever show at Gallery 85 in Antwerp, Belgium), she ran an art gallery in Brazil called Bendgy where she curated a vast array of original art, books, zines, prints from artists from all over the world, she runs her online store Pacolli Studio (ex-High in the Bay) for the past 14 years in SF
Pacolli worked as a producer and AD for MTV Brazil and made her own way through a male dominated arts industry back home. Residing in the Bay Area for nearly two decades pursuing and establishing herself as an artist, collaborating with bands to create album covers, fostered in venues like Needles and Pens worked, curated shows and met a lot of her peers in SF. Her work is inspired by the human condition, everyday life struggles and beauty. With a witty sense of humor, her zine and comics are equally autobiographical and part of an observation of the world that surrounds her.
When there’s nothing scheduled on the calendar, she seizes the opportunity to explore new concepts or collaboration with artists. We admire Pacolli for her resilience, hard work ethic and dedication to being true to herself, understanding the struggle, sacrifices, and maintaining consistency, never hijacking ideas respecting others' craft even if it takes longer to succeed in this competitive industry. It’s been lovely reconnecting since our gallery hiatus and pandemics. It’s a great honor to be able to present this event that is different, bold, and colorful. Originally we were only going to pick up a few pieces for the Gift Shop and after a full day of hanging at her home studio in the Tenderloin catching up on life and things we miss in the Bay, we sprouted the idea of a Pop-Up. Please join us and come out to meet Pacolli, she will have zines, and buttons available. Let's give her bright personality a warm welcome in San Jose.
If you are interested in any piece or need additional info, please contact info@empiresevenstudios.com
