February 2026

February 2026
Building Community Through Art
In the heart of Orange, the Orange Community Arts Guild (OCAG) is creating a welcoming, inclusive home
for creativity—bringing artists, students, and neighbors together through the shared language of art.
“Art has the power to open conversations, build empathy, and create connection,” said Britt Samuels, founder
of OCAG. “OCAG exists to make art accessible—to meet people where they are and invite them into creative
experiences that feel meaningful, inclusive, and rooted in community.”
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, OCAG brings exhibitions beyond traditional gallery walls—into classrooms, libraries,
small businesses, and community spaces—making art part of everyday life throughout Orange County. In
addition to rotating exhibitions, OCAG hosts artist talks, demonstrations, photography meetups, and youth-
focused workshops that encourage creative exploration and self-expression.
“These programs not only support working artists, but also foster confidence, curiosity, and connection among
participants of all ages,” said Larissa Brown, artist, author, and OCAG Board member. “OCAG creates space
for both established and emerging artists to share their work and connect with new audiences.”
In honor of Black History Month, Orange County Community Arts Guild (OCAG) proudly presents “2%:
A Celebration of Black Artistry,” a compelling exhibition at Saddleback College that amplifies the voices,
stories, and creative excellence of Black artists in Orange County, where Black residents represent just 2% of
the population.
“Two percent is a statistic,” said Samuels. “What you see here is a legacy.”
On view from February 4 through May 11 at the Saddleback College Learning Resource Library (3rd
Floor), the exhibition features photography, painting, and mixed media works that explore identity, history, and
lived experience. Through deeply personal and culturally resonant perspectives, the exhibit invites viewers to
engage, reflect, and celebrate the power of art through representation.