The Orange Community Art Guild (OCAG), a nonprofit founded in October 2024 by Britt Samuels, has established a growing network for local artists in Old Towne Orange. By partnering with local businesses like Wine and Wax and Cafe Zocalo, the guild provides exhibition spaces for creators and reinvests its profits into community initiatives, including youth art workshops. Upcoming projects include a photography exhibition by Orlando Suero at Citrus City Grille and a book release event featuring Prince’s long-time art director, Steve Parke.
This initiative highlights the vital role of grassroots organizations in sustaining local art ecosystems outside of major metropolitan museum hubs. By integrating art into everyday commercial spaces and focusing on accessible community engagement, OCAG fosters a sustainable model for local artists to gain visibility and financial support while enriching the cultural fabric of the Orange community.