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

From PDX to SJ

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.