*This is a special feature from the City of San José, Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
"I think probably nothing will teach you more than just experimenting. Do as many different things as you have the nerve to do. You just go for it. Sometimes you learn more from mistakes than you do from trying so hard.” ~ Bob Ross, American Painter

We can’t control everything that happens in this life but we each have an opportunity to create something beautiful. In many ways, we are the artists of our own lives. Why not color our canvases with lasting memories?

Even if you are not a painter, you may find yourself full of artistic inspiration with Paint the CitySJ. This event series encourages residents of all ages and abilities to dabble in the visual arts. Led by professional artist and instructor, Luz Gonzalez, participants create masterpieces in the tranquility of their neighborhood park.

“These Paint Nights are a great way to encourage our San José community to engage with each other and possibly create new friendships, tap into their creativity, and enhance their mental well-being,” Gonzalez shared.

Connect with family and make new friends throughout San José with Paint the CitySJ!

In 2019, Gonzalez began hosting free painting events (the precursor to Paint the City) for Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services’ (PRNS) facilities including Roosevelt Community Center. The paint nights gained popularity. Over time, they became such a success that the program grew and became a citywide series.

“I started working with ‘Paint the City’ in 2021, only it didn’t have a name at the time,” Gonzalez explained. “Over the years they’ve incorporated ‘Themed Nights,’ and have made great efforts to be as inclusive as possible and taking into consideration our diverse and colorful community.”

Community and staff support helped this event blossom. There are now dozens of Paint Nights across every district in San José, making it easier than ever for residents to explore their creative sides.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to work alongside dedicated individuals like Alvaro Celaya, Anthony Morales, and many PRNS staff that have always been supportive towards me and enthusiastic about Paint the CitySJ,” Gonzalez commented.

Inspiring resident to explore their creativity is one of Luz Gonzalez's goals as she hopes to encourage people who pursue art or want to start.

To create a vibrant painting, Gonzalez demonstrates each step so residents can follow along. But there is always space for the artist to add personal flair to their piece.

“Through these Paint Nights I’ve met so many amazing, creative, talented, lively people and my only hope is that I’ve inspired an individual or two to either continue pursuing art or other stress-reducing hobbies,” Gonzalez shared.

Paint the CitySJ, and all our PRNS events and programs, are here to boost San José pride and community. We want to provide welcoming places for people to gather, create memories, and make friends.

PRNS aspires to improve community health and well-being in partnership with others. And we also aspire to provide exceptional experiences for all San José residents, regardless of age, ability, income, or neighborhood.

With nice weather and clear skies, residents can enjoy the ambiance and allow their creativity to flow. 

These goals and aspirations make up part of our ActivateSJ plan to build and maintain healthy communities across San José. This plan contains five guiding principles, including Public Life and Equity & Access.

The Public Life principle promotes community spaces for residents to play, connect, and relax throughout their daily lives. These community spaces are welcoming, safe, and a great place to make memories and strengthen San José unity.

Our Equity & Access principle guides us to improve and innovate our programs, services, and spaces to accommodate every resident regardless of age, culture, income, or ability.

“Building Community Through Fun” is not just a mantra, it’s our mission. With your continued support and our staff’s hard work and dedication, we can build a Parks and Recreation system that is FUN, accessible and supportive of everyone.

As we work to make this aspiration a reality, relax and enjoy the fun we are ecstatic to provide. To learn more about Paint the CitySJ and other Placemaking events, visit sanjoseca.gov/placemaking.

The ActivateSJ Strategic Plan is the City of San José's Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) plan to maintain, improve and expand our facilities, programs, and services. The plan guides how we care for and develop a diverse park system and an abundance of recreation programs and services for all in San José.

ActivateSJ’s mission is to connect people through parks, recreation, and neighborhood services for an active San José. To learn more about our department’s plan and vision to move forward, visit activatesj.org.