Experiences
ART CORRIDOR
about the project
The Creekside Art Corridor serves as a vibrant canvas for the community, showcasing three unique public art installations that celebrate San José's diversity and heritage. Spanning 9,000 square feet, this evolving space invites locals to explore and appreciate the creativity of talented Bay Area artists.
the buzz
by Art is Luv and concept artist Charmin RounDtree
at Hapa’s Brewing Company
59 Barack Obama Blvd.
about the art
Led by Art is Luv and concept artist Charmin Roundtree, "THE BUZZ" transforms the new Hapa's Brewing outdoor beer garden into a festive, welcoming space. The installation features large birch plywood panels with playful circular elements and bottle-shaped cutouts, symbolizing oneness, collaboration, and the communal sharing of spirits and stories. The artwork integrated into the panels was created by a collective of Bay Area artists—Nicole Dixon, Carmen McNall, Rayos Mago, and Ian Johnson—each bringing unique perspectives on human connection, cultural diversity, and nature.
"‘THE BUZZ’ is designed to convey and celebrate the humanness of building community through social interaction," said Charmin Roundtree, lead concept artist. "We wanted to create the perfect invitation to a festive garden party, representing connectedness, growth, and harmony, reflecting the diverse demographics of San José. The collaborative nature of the project, both in artistic contribution and the sustainable materials chosen, mirrors this spirit."
About Art is Luv
Art Is Luv, founded by Oakland-based engineer, curator, and art enthusiast Charmin Roundtree, is a movement dedicated to making art accessible and fostering a vibrant community. Launched in 2014, Art Is Luv empowers individuals to connect with art in a natural way, bridging the gap between emerging artists and art admirers. Roundtree, also the creator of the Art + Science = Me project, aims to inspire both creators and collectors through thematic exhibitions, curatorial services, branding, and web marketing, offering artists local and global exposure. With a commitment to raw, inspiring, and live connections, Art Is Luv cultivates a community-focused artistic journey, reflecting Roundtree’s extensive involvement in the Bay Area’s Oakland’s art scene, including her roles on the East Bay Municipal Utility District Art Committee and the City of Oakland Commission and Public Art Advisory Committee and the Creative Growth Art Center and Berkeley Art Museum and Film Archive boards.
Flora & Fauna
by Art Builds Community and artists Alyssarhaye and Francisco Graciano
at The Lot
140 S. Montgomery Street
about the art
Curated by Art Builds Community, this installation features the work of native San José father-daughter artist duo, Alyssarhaye and Francisco Graciano. Their large-scale steel cutouts depict flora native to the region, including the seep monkey flower, California aster, and California fuchsia, alongside silhouettes of grass, the Guadalupe River, and birds. The design celebrates local ecology and San José's natural history while incorporating geometric shapes that nod to Silicon Valley's innovation.
"Our work is driven by a belief that art can transform spaces while calling back to and celebrating local ecology," stated Alyssarhaye Graciano. "By incorporating local flowers, animals, and themes related to the Guadalupe River trail, we aim to accentuate the vibrancy of a natural environment that reflects the heart and soul of San José history.”
About art builds community
Art Builds Community is a women-led public art planning, consulting, policy, curation, placemaking, and community engagement firm based in San José, CA. They bring critical thinking and artists’ perspectives to the creative design of cities, buildings, and infrastructure.
408 Innovates
by Art Builds Community and Ricardo Cortez
at The Landmark Lot
105 S. Montgomery Street
about the art
Also curated by Art Builds Community, this site features the work of San José artist, creative director, and cultural storyteller Ricardo Cortez. Utilizing panels on the fenceline, Cortez presents a series of statement artworks highlighting key milestones and rarely seen facts from San José’s history – from its agricultural roots to its technological achievements. The installation aims to bridge generations and foster appreciation for the city's evolution.
"This artwork is inspired by the rich, multifaceted identity of San José," explained Ricardo Cortez. "I wanted to create an educational journey, using historical references to point viewers toward understanding our city's progression. We also plan to invite residents to contribute family photos, turning the fence into a living reflection of our shared identity." Each piece will link to an online resource (408INNOVATES.COM) for deeper exploration.
About art builds community
Art Builds Community is a women-led public art planning, consulting, policy, curation, placemaking, and community engagement firm based in San José, CA. They bring critical thinking and artists’ perspectives to the creative design of cities, buildings, and infrastructure.