About this Event
Forget everything you thought you knew about art galleries.
If you're expecting hushed voices and polite nods, think again. Wallflowers Arts Interactive ExPop is an electrifying fusion of creativity, conversation, and connection. Step into a space where art isn’t just displayed—it’s alive, unfolding around you in unexpected ways.
Immerse yourself in a night of striking visuals, live performances, and thought-provoking installations. Meet the artists behind the work, hear their stories, and engage in conversations that spark new ideas. Whether you're an art lover, a collector, or simply craving an unforgettable night of inspiration, this is your chance to connect with a vibrant creative community.
Come for the art. Stay for the energy. Leave with new perspectives.
RSVP today.
***
The WALLFLOWERS Arts Interactive ExPop is set to transform an aesthetic downtown space into a vibrant, immersive art experience. Opening during the NVIDIA GTC AI Conference, this innovative pop-up reimagines the former home of the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art at 451 South First St., inviting the public to rediscover the power of in-person artistic space. At a time when San Jose’s SOFA District is struggling with vacancies, this initiative breathes new life into the neighborhood, proving that creativity is a catalyst for revitalization.
A New Approach to Experiencing Art
“Art should be spontaneous, accessible, and woven into the fabric of everyday life,” says Alexandra Stein, Founder & Director of the Arts Interactive ExPop. “This pop-up is more than an exhibition—it’s an opportunity for unexpected encounters with art as the catalyst and an ideal way to reimagine vacant commercial real estate.”
“As a broker, artist, and cultural curator, my goal is to merge empty buildings with artistic vision,” adds Stein, “Through pop-ups like this, we create not just exhibitions, but experiences—moments of discovery that stay with people long after they leave.”
The event will feature a curated selection of works from renowned artists:
- Matthew Rose’s whimsical collages, crafted as poetic visual haikus, showcasing his internationally renowned yet rarely exhibited work in California.
- Alex Itin’s expressive, freeform paintings and animations, offering a raw, energetic glimpse into the mind of an artist who defies convention.
- Mila Libman’s photo-like works capture the raw beauty of the environment, offering peace and contemplation. “I’m not trying to imitate reality,” says Libman, “but to create reality from within.”
- Alan Rath’s kinetic masterpiece Wallflower II, a mesmerizing array of pulsating speakers that draw viewers into a rhythmic, meditative experience.
- Steelcase is a global design and thought leader in the world of work. Along with their expansive community of brands, they design and manufacture innovative furnishings and solutions to help people do their best work in the many places where work happens.
- One Workplace opened in 1925 as a bookstore, One Workplace is now one of the largest commercial office furniture dealerships on the U.S. West Coast. Through the integration of architecture, office furniture, and technology solutions, One Workplace creates environments that are tailored to the way leading organizations do business.
Art as a Force for Good
In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, the pop-up will also serve as a benefit for artists impacted by the crisis, directing funds to organizations providing crucial support. Donations will be delivered to Grief & Hope.
Custom Framing by FRAMEWERK
FRAMEWERK is committed to serving the Bay Area arts community by providing Museum quality custom conservation picture framing and art installation services. FRAMEWERK prioritizes art preservation and is steeped in the tradition of contemporary art presentation.
For collectors looking to preserve their new artwork, FRAMEWERK will be present at the event, offering expert consultations on framing for any art purchased. Buyers will have the option to add professional framing with sample framed pieces available for viewing. Founder, Jalal Poehlman will be offering 20% off to all frames purchased at the event.
Steelcase in conjunction with One Workspace will be supplying the furniture for the ExPop.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
451 S 1st St, 451 South 1st Street, San Jose, United States
USD 0.00
