“Love Letters N Soul” Workshop

The “Love Letters N Soul” workshop blends Chicano culture, music, and art into a soulful, hands-on experience where attendees will create a unique and personal piece of art. Participants will design and decorate a label for the center of a decorative 45 rpm record, learning hand-styled lettering techniques and the gold leafing process, led by Choko. The finished record can be dedicated to someone they love, turning it into a heartfelt gift. The workshop honors the tradition of dedicating soul music to loved ones in Chicano culture, making it a deeply meaningful artistic process.

ARTIST: Joey Castaneda

IG: @chokotattoos

Combining elements of Surrealism and Chicanismo Cultura, Joey Castañeda’s artworks invite audiences to explore intricate details and ponder the meaning behind each carefully chosen element. A fourth-generation resident of Gilroy, California, Joey proudly continues his family’s legacy, with his children representing the fifth generation rooted in this vibrant community.

MUSICIAN: Edward Valdez

IG: @garlic_soul

Edward Valdez Jr. is a Gilroy native and a member of SOBA Collective. Growing up, Edward was deeply influenced by Lowrider culture. His love for calligraphy, inspired by Chicano street art, drives his exploration of various styles and digital mediums. He dedicates his free time creating custom lettering and digging for records. To Edward, carrying on the tradition of collecting records goes back generations and keeping that alive means the world to him. Catch him sharing the music he loves alongside other local DJs at "G-Town Funk". An event SOBA Collective throws where art, culture and vinyl music are the focal point.

Host or Publisher Creekside Socials