San Jose Standard

The City of San José’s Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) has kicked off this year's edition of WeCreate408, a month-long art challenge aimed at inspiring creativity and celebrating the city's diverse arts and culture. The campaign was officially announced on April 1 through social media channels, with an in-person event scheduled for April 6 in San José's Japantown.

According to Kerry Adams Hapner, Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of San José, "Creativity is all around us, and lives inside each of us. At this moment in time, we can use creativity to connect with ourselves, our friends and family, and our community."

The WeCreate408 challenge involves daily art prompts posted on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, encouraging community members to engage in the arts. Participants can also sign up for the newsletter to receive the prompts via email. This year's challenge coincides with California's Arts, Creativity, and Culture Month and includes various new features like downloadable lesson plans for educators, creative challenge reels on social media, San José prizes and giveaways, and interactive ways to participate such as Instagram stickers and filters.

Throughout the month, events will showcase local partners and businesses, with participatory art events featuring the City of San José’s 2024 Creative Ambassadors. The campaign will culminate in a kickoff event on April 6 as part of San José Day in Japantown, offering workshops and activities for all ages, including a Collagraph workshop with Creative Ambassador Rayos Magos.

Participants are encouraged to share their creations on social media using the #WeCreate408 hashtag to showcase their unique talents and ideas. The initiative aims to engage individuals from all backgrounds, emphasizing that everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of their artistic background.

For more information and program details, individuals can visit the WeCreate408 website and explore examples on the Wall of Creativity. The campaign has brought together a diverse range of partners to support the initiative, reflecting the vibrant arts community in San José.

WeCreate408 is an initiative by the City of San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs, generously funded by the David & Lucile Packard Foundation. The campaign was inspired by Creating Connection, a national initiative promoting the integration of creative expression, arts, and culture into everyday life.