Meet the Team
We are proud to present our diverse and dynamic team of professional artists, each bring a unique set of skills and backgrounds to our collective. Our artists deeply rooted in the vibrant community of Gilroy, CA, and share a rich Chicano heritage that influences their work. Together they form a tapestry of talent, creativity and cultural pride.
Founder/Board President/Executive Committee Chair
Joey Castaneda
A 4th generation Gilroy resident merges Surrealism and Chicanismo cultura in his artwork. Following high school, he joined the US Army for a 4 year contract. Starting tattooing at the age of 15, Joey became a Licensed tattoo artist in 2014. He has painted 7 murals in Gilroy, actively fostering collaborations and creativity in the community.
Board Executive Committee Co-Chair
Louie Andrade
Louie Andrade is a Nahua musician from Northern Amah Mutsun territory, with interests in history politics, anthropology, philosophy, and sociology. A former metal guitarist and vocalist, he founded the band Serpent and the Sun, and Ghost of IO Records. Louie is expanding his music skills and exploring his Indigenous roots and Family history across Mexico and the Southwestern U.S.
Board Member/Fund Development Chair
Angelica Jimenez
A Gilroy native and Visionary member of SOBA, is dedicated to advancing the art community. Influenced by her Mexican American heritage and deep appreciation for Halloween traditions, Angelica uses her background in baking, learned from her grandfather, to support her artistic endeavors. At SOBA, she focuses on organizing events that promote cultural connection and artistic growth.
Board Memeber/Relations Co-Chair
Taylor Cherry
An emerging artist from Gilroy, CA specializing in music snd photography. He crafts music inspired by 1950s-1960s Rock, Soul and Mexican Folk in his home studio. His photography focuses on inanimate objects, features Gaillo- style lighting and modern stop-motion techniques, blending macabre with a touch of playfulness.
Board Trustee
Julian Torres
A distinguished Chicano muralist from Hollister, CA, known for his Mexican American realism and cold-colored palette. His art, deeply influenced by his family's heritage, integrates classic car building and graffiti. Julian uses his work to uplift and inspire his community, demonstrating art's role as a vital means of expression and connection.
Board Trustee
Darlene Cordova
A Gilroy-based artist with a passion for music, poetry, painting, literature and photography. Influenced by vintage roses, romantic art, Anne Rice and gothic elements, she traditionally worked in art journals, drawing, and water color. Inspired by her family, Darlene is now expanding her artistic involvement and aims to contribute actively to the art community.
Co-Founder/Board Vice President/Executive Relations Chair
Jade Castaneda
A Chicanx artist from Gilroy, CA, known for her work in acrylic, watercolor, oil paint, and air dry clay. As the Co-founder of SOBA, she leads the Youth Mentorship Program, empowering the local youth through mural painting. Jade, who has overcome personal challenges, advocates for mental health and addiction recovery, using her experiences to inspire others. She actively supports local artists through projects and community events.
Board Treasurer/Finance Committee Chair
Edward Valdez
Edward Valdez Jr., a Chicano from Gilroy, CA, is deeply influenced by Lowrider culture and vinyl music. As the host of "Garlic Soul" on Hella Groove Radio, he shares his extensive record collection, promoting joy and healing. His love for calligraphy, inspired by Chicano street art, drives his exploration of various styles and digital mediums. As SOBA Collective's Treasurer, Edward supports future artists and record collectors, fostering community creativity and connection.
Board Member/Governance Comittee Chair
Desiree Villescaz
An Artist from the Tohono O'odham Nation, blends her deep connection to nature and community into her diverse practice across visiual, sculptural, performance and applied arts. Based in Gilroy, CA, she is also a self-taught culinary professional and owner of DV's Sweets. Desiree is passionate about fostering cultural and community empowerment.
Board Trustee
Itzayana Silva
A first generation visual artist from the South bay, based on unceded Ohlone land. Influenced by her abuelita and older cousin, her work explores transformative energies and the duality of life and death, drawing from Mexica culture and animal relatives. Her art is characterized by a gentle accepting approach to creation.
Board Trustee
Sarah Cassandra Guizar Retana
A distinguished Mexican American artist from Gilroy, CA. Raised by a resilient single mother, she transformed personal challenges into creative expression. A self-taught artist skilled in traditional mediums and digital art, Sarah's work, influenced by anime and fantasy, emphasizes the feminine form. She is dedicated to refining her craft and inspiring others to explore their own creativity.
Board Trustee
Isaiah Kittles
Isaiah Kittles is a Gilroy-based graphic/web designer who received his bachelor's degree from CSUMB. He is excited to explore the different ways he can use his versatile skills when it comes to designing for his clients. His career interests include UI/UX design, marketing, branding, video game design, and animation.
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