If you look on the side of one unassuming auto body shop at the intersection of E. Santa Clara St. + S. 19th St., you’ll discover a fresh mural honoring the legacy of some late San Jose movers + shakers.
“Leyendas de San José” will recognize the history of lowriding + the Hispanic community within our city.
🎨 The artists
Timeless Art Collective was formed this year by three independent artists — Eduardo Herrera, Steven Martinez, and Arianna Hansen.
The trio has been working on the piece since January 2022, with their overall goal (for this mural and all their future work) to bring more art to underrepresented communities.
🎨 The legends
Eduardo says the group’s new mural spotlights “real San Jose people [...] the ones that no one really has heard about.” Here are some “Leyendas” featured in the mural:
- Jesus Valenzuela | The radio host of KSJO; nicknamed “El Amo del Micrófono,” or “the master of the microphone.”
- Jose Martinez | The founder of Low Conspiracy, one of the oldest lowrider clubs in San Jose.
- Sonny Madrid | A founder of Lowrider Magazine, a publication that mixed auto work with Mexican American activism.
- Art Rodriguez | The author of the award-winning novel, “East Side Dreams,” that tells the tale of his childhood growing up in San Jose.
🎨 Unveiling Party
A mural unveiling will take place on Sat., April 23 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 901 E. Santa Clara St. and you don’t want to miss out on this artsy party.
Expect an Aztec ceremonial blessing of the work, followed by speeches from family members of those featured on the mural.
Co-sponsored by SJ Makers, the party will also include over 20 local vendor booths, food trucks, and music by DJ Mas Dulce.
In the meantime, stop by + catch the artists putting finishing touches on E. Santa Clara St. — they welcome early visitors.