Mural on Nichi Bei Bussan, 'Little Moment' – Nosego, 2015
by Jennifer Ahn & Carlos Araujo of Empire Seven Studios
As part of the E7SwallSJ Project, we brought out Philadelphia artist Nosego to paint the side of Japantown’s Nichi Bei Bussan, located at 140 Jackson Street in San Jose, CA 95112*.
Without a preliminary sketch, Nosego met with the business owner, Arlene, to hear some of her stories about the history around her family establishment and ties to Japantown. The inspiration that helped create the beautiful mural titled, “Little Moment”.
Many of the neighbors and business owners came out to support and see the progress of the newly emerging mural. We also met many dogs who came out to enjoy the emerging blue creature. I say creature because it is left up to each individual’s imagination. Some say it’s a wolf, a dog, and even a dragon!
*This particular mural was funded from a grant we received last year from the Knight Foundation.
“With a week of intensive 12-15 hour days during a heat wave, Nosego with assistance and camaraderie of Juan Carlos, Jen, and William created this engaging, exciting “Little Moment” enhancing Nichi Bei Bussan, San Jose’s Japantown, the”Heart of the Valley”, and Silicon Valley. “Bodacious!” ”
