Showing posts with label san jose art. Show all posts
Showing posts with label san jose art. Show all posts

Sunday, July 5, 2026

PXL Exhibition at NODE Invites Region’s Creative Community to Shape Digital Art

Those drawn to the evolving intersection of technology and creativity will find a compelling new destination when PXL by Kim Asendorf opens at NODE in Palo Alto on July 11th. The Berlin-based artist’s summer program transforms the pixel from a basic digital unit into the foundation of living, participatory systems that change with every contribution. Running through mid-September, the exhibition continues the momentum built by earlier presentations that drew tens of thousands of visitors to the space.

Asendorf built his reputation through rule-based generative systems that produce unexpected organic results from simple computational instructions. In PXL he centers the pixel itself, turning millions of individual points of light into interconnected works that respond to participation. Visitors move past observation to become active agents who expand the artwork permanently by adding their own pixels to the larger composition.

Three interconnected pieces form the core experience. PXL DEX establishes the ecosystem through algorithmic shifts that treat pixels as both visual elements and shareable tokens. PXL POD organizes these into evolving cylindrical forms that react to interaction and history, viewable from multiple angles. PXL NET stands as the centerpiece, a vast particle system simulating social and computational networks that requires the full scale of NODE’s hardware to reveal its depth and requires in-person presence for complete engagement.

NODE itself operates as a nonprofit hub dedicated to presenting digital art at physical scale with opportunities for education and preservation. Its 12,000-square-foot facility provides the resources for works that exceed typical home or screen limitations, creating communal encounters that have already proven their draw. The previous major presentation welcomed more than 45,000 visitors, signaling strong regional appetite for this form of immersive culture.

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Japantown San Jose Welcomes Summer with Weekly Markets and a Fresh Artist Pop-Up at Empire Seven Studios

Summer weather sets the stage for outdoor exploration in Japantown, where the Night Market on Thursdays and the Farmers Market on Sundays will bring liveliness to the neighborhood each week through the fall.

Empire Seven Studios continues to draw attention for its careful selection of books, prints, apparel, housewares, handmade artist goods, and original artworks. Every piece carries a connection to the creators and the wider artistic circle that calls the studio home. Subtle collaborations and quiet friendships shape the inventory, and visitors often comment on how the curation feels personal and story-driven rather than mass-produced.

A new Pop Up Series now launches at the studio, beginning with the work of Nychos from Rabbit Eye Movement. After a trip to his Los Angeles studio, the space received an assortment of prints, postcards, skateboards, patches, pins, shirts, hats, and books. Some of these items stand out as special finds no longer offered through other outlets, giving San Jose residents and collectors a direct way to access them locally for personal enjoyment or thoughtful gifts.

The series reflects a simple aim: share distinctive artist creations with the community while adding another layer of activity to Japantown’s regular rhythm of markets and creative gatherings. Those who value original work and neighborhood character will find a worthwhile stop at Empire Seven Studios, where the focus remains on connection, discovery, and supporting the artists who help define San Jose’s cultural landscape.

Saturday, April 11, 2026

San Jose Day Returns with Creative Events Across the City

San Jose will honor its dynamic community spirit with the 8th Annual San Jose Day celebration running through April 12. The multi-day series will showcase local art, music, fashion, and culture at venues across the city.

On Saturday the centerpiece festival will unfold at Creekside Social at 50 Barack Obama Blvd. from 10 AM to 3 PM. It'll feature live music, a lowrider showcases, over 70 vendors, and live art demonstrations.

Sunday will provide a relaxed close with the Sunday Social at Clandestine Brewing. These events will deliver memorable experiences and deepen appreciation for all that makes San Jose thrive. You can see the full lineup over here.




Wednesday, April 8, 2026

San Jose Sparks Everyday Creativity with WeCreate408 This April

The City of San José Office of Cultural Affairs launched WeCreate408, a month-long creative challenge that invites everyone to participate through simple weekly prompts.

Participants will photograph a favorite neighborhood spot, sketch a meal that brings back memories, or capture small details from daily routines. All contributions will appear together on a digital public art wall where hundreds of responses from across the city will showcase unique perspectives on life in San Jose.

This year organizers collaborated with more local artists than ever before. The campaign artwork came from several San Jose creators working together, and short video features highlight local talent including Los Panaderos, the energetic Mexican folk band known for mixing music with badminton.

Community art days at spots like Voyager Coffee and the Children’s Discovery Museum will offer fun in-person ways to participate. Classroom projects guided by local artist Julie Cardenas have also brought the challenge into schools.

For more information and to participate, head over here.

Thursday, February 19, 2026

Lunar 2026 Art Exhibition Brings Year of the Fire Horse Celebration to Downtown San Jose

A striking new gallery space in Downtown San Jose prepares to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse in grand style. Art Builds Community opens its doors on Sunday, February 22, 2026 for the Lunar 2026 exhibition opening reception, running from 11:30AM until 6PM at their location on E William Street between South First and Second streets.

Têrêsa Hài Đồng Lion Dancers take the spotlight at noon, followed by firecrackers ringing through the air. DJ Watertheflow provides a continuous soundscape from 2PM onward while attendees browse artwork from talented Bay Area creators. Pop-up experiences include Red Boat Fish Sauce's 15-year anniversary merchandise and giveaways alongside refreshing options from ŌUMA drinks.

This opening launches a longer exhibition that continues through April 19. Regular gallery hours begin the following week on Thursday through Sunday afternoons. Visitors will find pieces available for purchase that capture the spirit of Lunar New Year and the powerful symbolism of the Fire Horse, a zodiac sign appearing only once every sixty years.

The full artist lineup and program details will roll out in the coming weeks. Additional information and updates available at https://sjdowntown.com/event/lunar-new-year-art-exhibition/

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Content Pick-Up Party Celebrates Discovery in Downtown San Jose

Open San Jose will host an engaging evening on November 13, 2025, with Content's Pick-Up Party for Issue 18.1, Discover. Held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at CreaTV San Jose on 38 South Second Street, this free event welcomes all ages to mark the release of Content Magazine's latest issue. Organized by Content Magazine, the gathering spotlights local talent and fosters connections through art and performance.

Attendees can enjoy a DJ set by Arturo Garces, a cash bar for beer and wine, and complimentary beverages plus hors d'oeuvres for Content members from Goodtime Bar. Chopsticks Alley Art presents a CreativiTEA Open Mic Showcase with House of Asha and Chansing Dai. A highlight arrives at 7:30 p.m. with a Hair and Tattoo Runway Show featuring Low Le on tattoos and Ming Schipper as hair artist. A pop-up gallery exhibition, in partnership with Works/SJ, displays works by Hadi Aghaee, Tachiya Bryant, Sarah Bianco, John Contreras, Low Le, Betty Proper, Jasmine Reid and Augie WK.

The magazine issue 18.1 profiles a range of creators, including organic artist Hadi Aghaee, multimedia artist Tachiya Bryant, painter and muralist Sarah Bianco, artist and sculptor John Contreras, DJ and producer Arturo Garces, tattoo artist Low Le, mixed media artist Betty Proper, mixed media canvas artist Jasmine Reid, muralist Augie WK, along with community hubs like Open San Jose and Works San Jose. Partners such as Open San Jose, Chopsticks Alley Art, Filco Events and Goodtime Bar make the night possible. Events of this kind showcase San Jose's thriving arts community and draw people to explore Downtown's cultural offerings.

For tickets and additional information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/content-pick-up-party-181-discover-at-open-san-jose-tickets-1789784867719

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Giant Alebrijes Bring Mexican Magic to Downtown San Jose

Eight towering alebrijes now grace the streets around Plaza de Cesar Chavez, inviting residents and visitors to discover the whimsical side of Downtown San Jose. These fiberglass and steel sculptures, originating from Oaxaca, Mexico, stand as vibrant protectors and spiritual guides, each one a unique blend of animal forms and bold colors. Unveiled by San Jose Jazz on August 6 as part of the Summer Fest celebrations, the installations mark the third stop on their U.S. tour and will remain in place until September 28, offering plenty of time for exploration.

The project, a $400,000 collaboration supported by the city, San Jose Downtown Association, PG&E, and Sobrato Philanthropies, highlights San Jose's commitment to becoming a premier cultural destination. San Jose Jazz executive director Brendan Rawson noted the sculptures' role in establishing the downtown area as an artistic center, driving future growth through creativity. Mayor Matt Mahan anticipates they will draw tens of thousands to the core, boosting local businesses and community engagement during their stay.

Each alebrije includes QR codes that provide historical details on the piece, along with guides to nearby dining options and event calendars, making it easy to turn a casual stroll into a full day of discovery. Following successful displays in Reno and San Francisco, these structures pay tribute to the Latin influences woven into the fabric of San Jose Jazz Fest, now in its 35th year. After their time here, the alebrijes will continue to Fresno, but for now, they add a layer of enchantment to everyday walks in the city. Personally, they are a dramatic improvement over the current "sculpture" in Plaza de Cesar Chavez.

This initiative underscores the evolving landscape of Downtown San Jose, where art intersects with daily life to create memorable experiences. Families, artists, and tourists can connect with global traditions right in the heart of Silicon Valley, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse stories that shape the community.

Source: SVBJ



Friday, August 1, 2025

Discover South First Fridays: San Jose's Vibrant Art Walk in the SoFA District

San Jose comes alive on the first Friday of each month with South First Fridays, a celebration of creativity that draws locals and visitors into the heart of the SoFA District. Galleries and museums open their doors wide, showcasing fresh exhibitions from talented artists who capture the essence of innovation and culture. From paintings that explore human connections to immersive installations reflecting diverse heritages, the event offers a chance to engage directly with the works and their creators. This gathering highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression, turning ordinary evenings into memorable explorations of visual storytelling.

The STREET MRKT adds an energetic layer to the experience, transforming South First Street into an open-air marketplace where independent artists display and sell their unique pieces. Food trucks serve up local flavors, while live DJ sets keep the atmosphere lively into the night. Venues like the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art and MACLA feature standout shows, including explorations of cultural roots through folk-inspired art and textile innovations. These elements combine to create a family-friendly space that encourages everyone to support the creative community and discover new favorites.

Beyond the core area, the event extends to the Historic District and Martha Gardens District, with additional spots hosting photography tributes and poetry performances. San Jose's art scene thrives through such initiatives, building connections among residents and reinforcing the city's role as a hub for cultural growth. Attending South First Fridays not only provides entertainment but also contributes to the ongoing vitality of Downtown San Jose, where every visit helps nurture a brighter future for the arts.

The next South First Friday is... today! Come on down from 5-9pm. The Street Market runs from 5pm-10pm. Admission is free and it is family friendly.

Source: South FIRST FRIDAYS



Saturday, July 12, 2025

Celebrate 15 Years of Theatrical Joy with Playful People Productions in San Jose

San Jose’s Playful People Productions is stepping into its 15th anniversary season with an exciting lineup for 2025-26. This family-oriented theater company has crafted a schedule that spans Disney classics, side-splitting comedies, and imaginative new tales, ensuring there’s something for every age and interest. It’s a milestone year that also welcomes back home-school casts after a decade, adding a fresh layer of community connection to an already vibrant season.

The fun begins with Disney’s Moana JR, a journey of courage and discovery suited for ages five to eleven. Auditions run August 11-13, rehearsals start August 25, and performances hit the Historic Hoover Theatre stage October 17-19. Next up is Disney’s Newsies!, a high-energy story of young newsboys standing up for justice, perfect for ages eleven and up, with performances November 8-16. In 2026, The One Act Play That Goes Wrong brings laughter for ages sixteen and older in March, followed by Between the Lines JR in April for ages twelve to seventeen. The season closes with Willy Wonka JR, a delightful adventure for ages four to twelve, running May 15-24.

What makes this season stand out is Playful People Productions’ dedication to inclusivity and creativity. Since 2010, they’ve built a welcoming space where performers of all ages and backgrounds can thrive, guided by principles of positivity and individual support. Families can even perform together, with opportunities for kids to share the stage with parents or grandparents. Add in the Enchanted Masquerade fundraising event on September 27 at the Saratoga Foothill Club, and you’ve got a season that invites everyone to join the celebration.

For more information and tickets, head over here.



Sunday, June 1, 2025

The Vibrant World of SJ Walls

SJ Walls is a week-long public art festival where streets are transformed into an open-air gallery.  Take the Guadalupe River Art Walk, for example—it’s growing with new installations that turn a simple trail into a vibrant corridor of murals. These artworks, inspired by the native habitat along the Guadalupe River Trail, connect people with both nature and creativity. Artists like Roan Victor and Kristina Micotti have contributed stunning pieces that brighten the area and strengthen community ties. These were part of the 2024 festival.

Through the Artist in Residency (AIR) program, world-class talent comes to San Jose, leaving behind murals that inspire resilience and spark inspiration. Beyond the visual art, SJ Walls hosts musical gatherings and educational programming, ensuring art is something everyone can experience. In Downtown San Jose, these efforts help create a sense of place and pride that resonates with residents and visitors alike.

As San Jose continues to grow, SJ Walls plays a vital role in shaping its identity. The initiative turns everyday spaces into sources of wonder, fostering a city where creativity thrives. SJ Walls 2025 runs until June 8th. To see which new murals are in progress, follow SJ Walls on Instagram.








Tuesday, February 11, 2025

February cultural events in San Jose

The Silicon Valley Business Journal has a list of notable cultural events in San Jose this month.  MACLA gallery is hosting a figure drawing on Feb 12th starting at 6:45pm. Opera San Jose is kicking off their season with "Bluebeard's Castle" on Feb 15. Works/San Jose has a new exhibit. The San Jose Improve is hosting open mic nights on Feb 12th at 8pm. A lot's going on! Check out the source link below for all of the details.

Source: SVBJ


Thursday, January 30, 2025

New San Jose mural honors the Vietnamese community

Completed in time for Tet, Vietnamese Lunar New Year, there is a massive new mural in East San Jose honoring the Vietnamese community. The three panels of the mural represent the Vietnamese people fleeing their homeland, traditional dress, and the beauty of Vietnam.

San Jose has the largest Vietnamese community outside of Vietnam, so it's fitting that this is the largest Vietnamese mural in the Bay Area. Also 2025 is the 50th anniversary of the great migration away from Vietnam after the Vietnam war.

The mural was painted by the 1Culture Gallery team and it is located at 1737 Alum Rock Avenue on the side of Wash America.

Source: San Jose Spotlight




Sunday, January 26, 2025

Fleurs de Villes San Jose LUNAIRE

From January 29th to February 2nd, visit Westfield Valley Fair for Fleurs de Villes LUNAIRE, a free 6-day immersive exhibition celebrating San Jose’s floral artistry, inspired by Lunar New Year traditions and the Zodiac focus on the Year of the Snake. 
  • This stunning showcase of local floral talent will be freely open to the public from January 29 - February 2, and will feature over 15 incredible fresh floral installations, including Fleurs de Villes’ iconic mannequins.
  • Visitors are also invited to extend their LUNAIRE experience by visiting another incredible floral mannequin on display at Hotel Valencia (Santana Row). 
  • Each floral display will honor Lunar New Year traditions and the spirit of the Year of the Snake, offering a breathtaking fusion of culture and floral artistry created by the Bay Area’s talented floral artists.
Valley Fair is open from 10am-9pm 

Source: Westfield Valley Fair


 

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

New Downtown San Jose Artwork

Our friends at West Coast Artworks have several new canvas prints available featuring Downtown San Jose. I especially like the two new ones below. 

One highlights the MIRO towers, San Jose City Hall, and the Bank of Italy building. The other is a unique shot of the SoFA district starting with The Pierce and Sparq. In fact, that is probably the view that many will get from San Jose's newest luxury apartment building, The Fay.

I have purchased several of these prints and love them. They are always conversation starters for guests.

To see all of the new artwork, including those that ship in time for Christmas, head over here.


Monday, November 18, 2024

Content 17.1

The latest issue of Content Magazine is about to drop and as is tradition it will be launched with a party for subscribers on Friday, November 22nd from 6-9pm. This time it will be at Fiesta Hall at the Santa Clara Fairgrounds (344 Tully Road). 

The event will include food trucks curated by Feast Mode such as Chicken Bros, Road House 48, and Veros Kitchen. Beer will be provided by the excellent Foxtale Fermentation Project. They will actually be doing a special Fall beer release featuring artwork from Fabricio Ponce. There will ben be an onsite mural and gallery exhibition presented in partnership with 1CLTURE as well as DJ and breakdancing.

Parking is free at Gate C and guests are welcome. The first 150 Content members to check in will get a complimentary beverage and Hors D'oeuvres. 100 Content members will also receive a unique holiday gift.

Here are some of the people featured in the upcoming issue:

DJ - Brotha Reese | Muralist - Cameron “Camer1” Moberg | Breakdancer - Vicki “La Vix” chang | Painter/muralist - Scotty Greathouse | Textile Artist - Jaya Griscom | Grafitti Legend - King157 | Mural - “The Grand Strike,” Analyn Bones, Juan Velazquez, Miguel Machuca, Jordan Gabriel, Eddie Romo, and Melissa Manuel | Grafitti Legend - Nexus | Painter/Illustrator - Fabricio Ponce | Graffiti Primer - Joey Reyes | Shades of Brown Collective - Joey Castaneda, Jade Castaneda, Louie Andrade, Edward Valdez, Isaiah Kittles, Angelica Jimenez, Desiree Villescaz, Taylor Cherry, Itzayana Silva, Julian Torres, Sarah Cassandra Guizar Retana, Darlene Cordova

To learn more or subscribe, head over here.


Friday, August 2, 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk + STREET MRKT - August 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS is back with exhibits across multiple galleries in three different districts. Everything is open from at least 5-9pm. Participating venues include ANNO DOMINI, the Institute of Contemporary Art, KALEID Gallery, Works San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, the SoFA Market, MACLA, Art Ark Gallery, MACHU PICCHU, San Jose Jazz, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery.

It all goes down on Friday, August 2nd. As usual admission is free and all ages are welcome. Click here for a preview of featured art! Below is a map with all of the galleries to check out across all three different districts.

This month is also a STREET MRKT which overlaps with the art walk and runs from 5pm to 10pm. This bonus event features dozens of vendors and artists, turning the streets of SoFA into an outdoor art gallery. It also includes live music, food trucks, and a beer garden with local breweries (more details below).



STREET MRKT FEATURED ARTISTS:
Anthony Alva 
Rebecca Anguiano
BAGI / Bay Area Glass Institute 
Delilah Bender
The Blunt Letters
Julianne Bonnet
Emmanuel Cervantes Mejia 
Crossroads Trading Co.
Dario Cruz
Current Tattooing
Christina Del Alto
Jennifer DeChenne
Joseph Demaree
Mario Dimas
Lorenz Dumuk
Mahsa Emoventur
Flipside DJ Crew
Force129
Cynthia Gonzalez
Hand in Hand Henna
Higher Fire Clayspace
Maureen Holcomb
Jodi408
Katherine Lee
Sarah Loyola
Valentino Loyola
Joe Mandrick
Martha Gardens Arts
Mersay Mattos
David Mejia 
Karen Oeh
Leslie Perez 
Betty Proper
Ragavon
Francisco Ramirez
Steven Regalado 
Marilyn Roaf aka Purl Bailey
Mike Rogan
Ricardo Sandoval 
Rene Schilling-Sears
South Bay Ceramics
Suha Suha

–>  BEER GARDEN 
5:00 – 10:00pm Great music provided by Flipside Crew
featuring Dougie, Jswizza & Notorious P.I.G. 

Beer Garden sponsored by & featuring local & regional breweriesClandestine Brewing Co.Fox Tale Fermentation, and Strike Brewing Co.

Thursday, June 27, 2024

New mural by the Children's Discovery Museum in Downtown San Jose painted by acclaimed local tattoo artist

A beautiful new mural has been completed along Discovery Meadow, part of the Guadalupe River Park. As a frame of reference this is right outside the Children's Discovery Museum Downtown. The artist is Taki "Ryudaibori" Kitamura, a Japanese-American tattoo artist that founded State of Grace Tattoo in San Jose's Japantown.

The mural is entitled "Serpentine Fire" and is the twelfth mural added to the Guadalupe River Art Walk, enhancing what has become the Bay Area's longest public art corridor. The mural celebrates the year of the dragon and the multiculturalism of San Jose.

Below are several photos of the mural (credit to Lan Nguyen Photography) along with the full press release.






June 21, 2024: San José, CA – New mural painted by local artist and longtime tattoo shop owner celebrates the unifying significance of dragons and serpents across cultures. San Jose Walls (SJ Walls) and Guadalupe River Park Conservancy (GRPC) unveil the new mural along the Guadalupe River Park at Discovery Meadow, adjacent to the Children’s Discovery Museum in downtown San José. Entitled “Serpentine Fire,” the new installation is the twelfth mural artwork added to the Guadalupe River Art Walk, enhancing the Bay Area’s longest public art corridor.

This year’s Artist-in-Residence is Taki "Ryudaibori" Kitamura, an acclaimed Japanese-American Tattoo artist, who in 2002 founded the shop, State of Grace Tattoo, currently located in Japantown. Kitamura’s shop serves as a regional home for traditional Japanese tattooing, connecting resident artists trained in Japan and those from the Bay Area to deepen the art of tattooing through exchange, apprenticeship, and collaboration.


“To celebrate this lunar year of the dragon and the multiculturalism of San José, Serpentine Fire represents dragon mythology around the world,” says Kitamura. “With this mural, I am expressing the diversity of serpent divinity and sacred spaces - the dragon and serpent have been symbolic in cultures all over the world and in this, I see our common humanity.” The mural depicts various scenes where the public may interact with the artwork.


The new artwork and public engagement is supported by the City of San José to increase park visitation and usage in the Guadalupe River Park. The mural was curated in response to feedback from the Guadalupe Washington and Gardner neighborhoods just south of San José’s downtown core, favoring themes around community and diversity.


“Art has the ability to welcome people to a space. Growing up in San José, I believed there was a missed opportunity for public art to highlight our rich diversity,” says Natasha Lamperti, GRPC’s Project Manager. “I am so excited to see how future visitors will react to the mural.”


“The goal of the Guadalupe River Art Walk is to envision the Guadalupe River Park as a natural public art gallery and community gathering space” says Stacey Kellogg, San Jose Walls Director. “It has been five years and over a dozen installations since we started and the changes to the trail and park are really rewarding to see.” 


Mural painting will continue through Friday, June 21st and is accessible now to the public. 


Additional support for this year’s artist residency is provided by Applied Materials Foundation and World Wide Walls. For more information and ways to support, please visit https://sjwalls.com/donate.

###


About Artist-in-Residence Taki "Ryudaibori" Kitamura:

Taki “Ryudaibori”Kitamura is an acclaimed Japanese-American tattoo artist local to San Jose.


State of Grace Tattoo was founded by Taki “Ryudaibori” Kitamura in September of 2002. Originally located on Berryessa Road, Taki moved the shop to the San José Japantown neighborhood in 2009. With the support of the Dobashi Family, State of Grace reopened the second floor of the historic Shanghai Building. While definitely seen as a home of traditional Japanese tattooing, including two resident artists straight from Japan, the diverse staff strives to offer an authentic experience for the discerning collector. In addition to a full time tattoo schedule, the shop has been involved in publishing, museum exhibitions, lectures, art shows, murals and Horitomo’s lifestyle brand: Monmon Cats. 


For more information about State of Grace Tattoo visit stateofgracetattoo.com. You can find Taki on instagram at @stateofgracetaki.


About San Jose Walls:

San Jose Walls (formally POW! WOW! San Jose), established in 2017, is Northern California’s regional branch of the Worldwide Walls network of festivals happening in over 20 cities  around the world. Led locally by Empire Seven Studios —a contemporary urban art gallery and cultural institution in Japantown, San José, California.


Over the past six years, San Jose Walls has grown into the Bay Area’s premiere art festival with a line up and experience that provides some of the best in the world. Much more than a multi-day festival, San Jose Walls is an amenity with substantial economic and community impact. It is also a vehicle to celebrate our city’s  past, present, and future creative culture.


To date, San Jose Walls has produced over 80 murals and art installations throughout the City with a focus on underserved neighborhoods and most recently, the Guadalupe River Park and Trails. The goal is to strengthen community ties by bringing local and worldwide contemporary art to our City as a way  to highlight its rich diversity.

 

For more information on SJ Walls contact info@sjwalls.com or visit www.sjwalls.com.


About GRPC:

The Guadalupe River Park Conservancy (GRPC) provides community leadership for the development and active use of the Guadalupe River Park & Gardens through education, advocacy, and stewardship.


Founded in 1996, GRPC is the City of San José’s nonprofit partner leading park programming and management. They envision the Guadalupe River Park & Gardens as a civic greenway that connects people to nature and each other, and uplifts neighborhoods through San José’s front yard.


This two-and-a-half mile ribbon of parkland runs along the banks of the Guadalupe River in the heart of downtown San José. The River Park & Gardens serve as a north/south connector and contain beloved features such as the Guadalupe River Trail, the Rotary PlayGarden, the San José Heritage Rose Garden, and various public art including the Guadalupe River Art Walk.

Programming within the park includes educational opportunities, volunteerism, and a variety of year-round events for the public to enjoy. For more information visit www.grpg.org.

Thursday, June 6, 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk + SubZERO - June 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS is back with exhibits across multiple galleries in three different districts. Everything is open from at least 5-9pm. Participating venues include ANNO DOMINI, the Institute of Contemporary Art, KALEID Gallery, Works San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, the SoFA Market, MACLA, Art Ark Gallery, MACHU PICCHU, San Jose Jazz, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery.

It all goes down on Friday, June 7th. As usual admission is free and all ages are welcome. Click here for a preview of featured art! Below is a map with all of the galleries to check out across all three different districts.

This month is also SubZERO which overlaps with the Festival and continues tomorrow from 5pm to 11pm. SubZERO features dozens of vendors and artists, live music across multiple stages, and a beer garden with local breweries. You won't want to miss it!


Thursday, May 30, 2024

Epic San Pedro Square mural is coming along

Over 1,200 volunteers have come together to paint one of the largest murals in California in Downtown San Jose. The art is inspired by a sarape blanked and represents the diversity of San Jose. Much work has already been done over Memorial Day weekend and it could be complete as soon as tomorrow. To check on the progress, just head over to San Pedro Square... you literally can't miss it.

Source: Fox KTVU




Friday, May 3, 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk - May 2024

South FIRST FRIDAYS is back with exhibits across multiple galleries in three different districts. Everything is open from at least 5-9pm. Participating venues include ANNO DOMINI, the Institute of Contemporary Art, KALEID Gallery, Works San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, the SoFA Market, MACLA, Art Ark Gallery, MACHU PICCHU, San Jose Jazz, and Chopsticks Alley Gallery.

Worth noting this month is the screening of a short film, Pizza Monster, at MACLA at 7:30pm and 8:30pm. Also Sacred Heart Community Service at 550 S. First will have life-size sculptures by Ramon Franco Arambula.

It all goes down on Friday, May 3rd. As usual admission is free and all ages are welcome. Click here for a preview of featured art! Below is a map with all of the galleries to check out across all three different districts.