Guadalupe River Art Walk
2024
“SERPENTINE FIRE”
Designed by: Taki “Ryudaibori” Kitamura, Colin Kenji Baker, Molly Kitamura
Painted by: State of Grace Tattoo
“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.
Mural can be found at the Children’s Discovery Museum. Be sure to tag us when you check it out!
Film by Kevin Ngyuen - IG @nguyen.kev_
For more info on supporting the “Guadalupe River Art Walk” , visit HERE
Meet our Artist!
Announcing our next Artist in Residence Taki “Ryudaibori” Kitamura.
Taki 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 Jose 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.
