News
Sign up for upcoming events
Press Release
Media contact:
Britt Samuels
Founder, Orange Community Arts Guild
britt@eyenomedia.com
714-331-1627
Orange Community Arts Guild Builds an Inclusive Home for Creativity in Orange County
—Upcoming exhibitions spotlight a centennial photography celebration and a showcase of Black artistry—
Orange, CA—January 9, 2026—In the heart of Orange, the Orange Community Arts Guild is building something powerful: a welcoming, inclusive home for creativity that brings artists, students, and neighbors together through the shared love and language of art.
“Art can spark conversation, build empathy, and strengthen community,” said Britt Samuels, founder, OCAG.
“OCAG was founded to make art accessible, to meet people where they are, and invite them into creative
experiences that feel welcoming and meaningful.”
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, OCAG’s exhibitions can be found beyond traditional gallery walls, appearing in classrooms, small businesses, and community gathering spaces, bringing art into everyday life and making it part of the local landscape. In addition to rotating exhibitions, OCAG hosts artist talks, demonstrations, and youth-focused workshops designed to encourage creative exploration and self-expression.
“These programs not only support working artists but also help foster confidence, curiosity and connection
among participants of all ages,” said Larissa Brown, artist, author, owner, OC Art Studios and member,
board of directors, OCAG. “From renowned painters, photographers and mixed-media artists to emerging
talent that deserves wider exposure, OCAG creates opportunities for artists to share their work and connect
with new audiences.”
Upcoming Events and Artists:
January
Exhibition: The Photography of Orlando Suero: A Centennial Celebration
Curated by: Britt Samuels, founder, OCAG
Dates: January 5 – February 5
Location: OC Camera, 23052 Lake Forest Dr., Laguna Hills
Reception: January 17 at 6:00 pm
Presented by: Susan Shieldkret and David Dull
February
Exhibition: 2%: A Celebration of Black Artistry
Featured artists: Britt Samuels, Larissa Brown, Kaleeka Bond Quayle, Sola Saar, Kobina Wright, Eesuu Orundida
Curated by: Britt Samuels, founder, OCAG, and Larissa Brown, member, board of directors, OCAG
Dates: February 4 – May 11
Location: Saddleback College, Learning Resource Library, 3 rd Floor, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission
Viejo
Reception: February 6 at 6:00 pm
Presented by: OCAG
Pop Up Exhibition: 2%: A Celebration of Black Artistry
Curated by: Britt Samuels, founder, OCAG
Featured artists: Britt Samuels, Larissa Brown, Eric Jones, Kobina Wright, Eesuu Orundide
Date: February 21
Location: FIT Planning Group, 550 W. Orangethorpe Ave., Placentia
Time: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Presented by: OCAG
About the Orange Community Arts Guild
The Orange Community Arts Guild (OCAG) is a welcoming 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization based in
Orange, California, dedicated to uplifting the community through the power of art. OCAG supports local
artists through inclusive exhibition opportunities, offers hands-on art workshops for youth, and presents
engaging exhibitions in schools, businesses, and public spaces throughout the region. Committed to
accessibility, creativity, and community connection, OCAG invites artists, supporters, and art lovers of all
backgrounds to help build a vibrant local arts culture. All donations are tax-deductible and directly support
OCAG’s community-based programs.
Visit OCAG at https://ocag.org
Britt Samuels Jr.
Britt Samuels discovered his passion for photography at the tender age of 12. His early start in the art form allowed him to hone his skills and develop a unique perspective, which has captivated audiences for years. Samuels' dedication to his craft has led to numerous accomplishments and contributions to the art community.
One of his notable achievements includes exhibiting and co-curating at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Arts. The show, titled "2%; A Celebration of Black Artistry," was a groundbreaking event that showcased the rich and diverse talents of Black artists. This exhibition underscored Samuels' commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the art world.
Samuels' photographic works have garnered international recognition, being featured in over 13 magazines worldwide. His ability to capture compelling images has earned him a place among esteemed photographers on a global scale.
Michelle Deziel-Hernandez
Michelle Deziel-Hernandez, an independent curator and art writer, is celebrated for her fervent dedication to contemporary art and her commitment to cultivating dialogue within the art community. With a background in art history and curation, Michelle brings a discerning eye and a profound grasp of artistic trends to her endeavors.
Throughout her career, Michelle has curated numerous exhibitions exploring diverse themes and mediums, showcasing both emerging and established artists. Her curatorial approach is marked by a thoughtful selection of artworks that provoke thought and engage viewers deeply. Notable among her endeavors is the expansive “Radical Past” series in Pasadena, spotlighting the progressive contemporary art culture of the ‘60s and ‘70s. She has curated shows featuring luminaries like Ynez Johnston and Ed Ruscha, contributing to the resounding success of the Pompidou Centre, Paris exhibition on California contemporary art.
She has curated shows featuring luminaries like Ynez Johnston and Ed Ruscha, contributing to the resounding success of the Pompidou Centre, Paris exhibition on California contemporary art. tenure as the Curator of Contemporary Art at the Norton Simon Museum saw the staging of numerous critically acclaimed shows, as well as the establishment of Pasadena Art Night in 1999, which continues as an important community arts event to this day.
Mike Salas
Where Art and Community Converge! I'm Mike Salas, an Army veteran born and raised in Orange County. From my roots at Buena Park High School to airborne school and a transformative year in S. Korea, my journey has led me back home to create Soulland Lab, a community art center. Beyond art, I'm deeply committed to giving back, working with organizations like Boys and Girls Club, Orangewood Children's Home, and local homeless charities, alongside my passion for supporting animal shelters. Through Soulland Lab, I'm weaving a tight-knit community dedicated to creativity, compassion, and connection—a place where every stroke of a paintbrush is a step toward a stronger, brighter Orange County and beyond.
