We were lucky to catch up with Britt Samuels recently and have shared our conversation below.

Britt, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

One of my most meaningful projects has been a collaboration with the largest hotel in Orange County, California with Hilton Anaheim. We started a series called “Canvas Conversations” and it’s a rotating exhibit with a new focus every one to two months. In June, the exhibit was titled ‘Juneteenth’ and featured works from local Orange County POC artists across the hotel. In August, we’re celebrating the creativity and innovation of the next generation of artists ages 13-18. Visitors at Hilton Anaheim expect a diverse array of artworks, ranging from paintings and sculptures to digital art and mixed media, reflecting the unique perspectives and boundless imaginations of these emerging talents.

This collaboration has been an incredibly meaningful project for me because it provides a unique platform to showcase the diverse talent of local artists from Orange County. This initiative aligns perfectly with my passion for supporting and promoting the arts within our community. By curating this collection, I am able to bring together artists of all ages and backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry that reflects the vibrant cultural landscape of our region.

This project also allows me to connect artists with a broader audience, offering them exposure and opportunities they might not have had otherwise. It’s deeply rewarding to see the excitement and pride on the faces of these artists as their work is displayed in such a prominent venue. The collaboration with Hilton Anaheim underscores the importance of art in enhancing our living and working environments, and it reaffirms my commitment to fostering artistic expression in our community.

The conversations about this collaboration began when Jason Abdullah from Hilton Anaheim reached out to the City of Orange Chamber of Commerce in search of a curator for a new art initiative. As a board member of the Chamber, I was immediately intrigued by the opportunity. The idea of curating a collection of local art for such a well-regarded establishment was both exciting and a perfect fit for my background and interests. I also founded the Orange Community Arts Guild (OCAG) in conjunction with the City of Orange Chamber of Commerce.

Jason and I had several discussions about the vision for the project and the potential impact it could have on the local art community. We shared a common goal of not only beautifying the Hilton Anaheim but also creating a platform that celebrates the creativity and talent of Orange County artists. This collaboration is meaningful to me because it bridges the gap between the corporate world and the artistic community, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support. It’s a project that highlights the importance of art in our daily lives and its ability to inspire and connect people.4) For folks who may not have read about you before, can you please tell our readers about yourself, how you got into your industry / business / discipline / craft etc, what type of creative works you provide, what problems you solve for your clients and/or what you think sets you apart from others. Please provide as much detail as you feel relevant.

Britt, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a multifaceted creative journeying through life’s diverse landscapes. At the tender age of 12, I embarked on a photographic odyssey, capturing moments that would shape my artistic vision. After a stint in corporate America, I found himself drawn to the allure of television production, immersing myself in the dynamic world of visual storytelling for five enriching years. Yet, my thirst for creative autonomy led me to forge a new path, founding my own video marketing enterprise.

In 2017, my passion for photography blossomed into a full-fledged artistic pursuit. Since then, my works have graced the pages of 13 esteemed magazines worldwide, captivating audiences with my unique perspective. I’ve also been very fortunate to curate four compelling art exhibitions in Orange County.

I’ve been honored as a recipient of the Community Engagement Grant in 2021, clinching the prestigious Black & White Photography category at the esteemed LA Photography Awards in 2022 and more. But all would not be possible without the support of the Orange County community.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a mission to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive arts community in Orange County. This mission is what makes the collaboration with Hilton Anaheim so meaningful. By curating local artists for this project, I aim to highlight the incredible talent within our community, providing artists of all ages and backgrounds with a platform to showcase their work.

My goal is to create opportunities for artists to gain exposure, build their careers, and connect with new audiences. I believe that art has the power to transform spaces and enrich lives, and through projects like this, I strive to bring that transformative power to public and private venues alike. The Hilton Anaheim collaboration exemplifies this mission by not only beautifying the hotel but also supporting and celebrating our local artists.

Ultimately, my creative journey is about fostering a sense of community through art, bridging gaps between different sectors, and ensuring that the arts remain a vital and accessible part of our everyday lives. This project is a testament to that mission, and it inspires me to continue working towards a future where art and creativity are valued and supported in every corner of our community.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to bring joy, inspiration, and a sense of connection to others through my work. There is something profoundly fulfilling about seeing someone interact with and be moved by a piece of art that I have created or curated. It’s a reminder of the power of art to transcend barriers, evoke emotions, and foster understanding.

In the context of the Hilton Anaheim collaboration, the reward is twofold. Firstly, I get to witness the pride and excitement of local artists as their work is displayed in a prestigious venue. Knowing that I have played a role in providing them with this opportunity is incredibly gratifying. Secondly, I see the impact that the art has on visitors to the hotel. Watching people stop, admire, and engage with the artwork brings a deep sense of satisfaction, as it demonstrates the value and importance of integrating art into public spaces.

Additionally, the collaborative nature of art is immensely rewarding. Working with other artists, community members, and organizations like Hilton Anaheim allows for a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. This collaboration not only enhances my own creative journey but also strengthens the fabric of our local arts community.

Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to make a positive impact on individuals and the community as a whole. It’s about creating something that resonates, inspires, and leaves a lasting impression.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ocag.org
• Instagram: ocartsguild
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ORANGECOMMUNITYARTSGUILD

Image Credits

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