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

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