The smell of hops filled the air Saturday evening as cymbals crashed at Radiant Beer Co.’s quarterly event for the Warehouse of Contemporary Art in Anaheim.

The brewery and arthouse came together once again to provide artists of all mediums an opportunity to showcase their artwork ranging from found objects to pencil sketches and artwork of all kinds being displayed on large panels and small booths.

Event organizer Larry Barnes prided WOCA on its acceptance of all art.

“Anyone that shows up can take part in it. We don’t censor artwork,” Barnes said. “We don’t have a hierarchy of abilities. We let people show their work, no strings attached.” 

WOCA has been hosting art showcases for 23 years and has seen its fair share of changes over time. Initially running out of a print shop, artists and attendees have formed long-term bonds through the event. When the COVID-19 pandemic lifted, it was former artists who offered WOCA the space at Radiant Beer and they have been hosting there since. 

WOCA’s commitment to building a space for showcases has kept artists coming back to display their craft. One of those artists, Manuel Cortez, said he has showcased his art at WOCA for over 10 years and has seen how the event has grown.

“I like the changes. Especially the location, meeting new people, new artists,” Cortez said. “The setting up, the breaking it down. Saying goodbye and thank you to everybody, those are the best parts.”

In tandem with displaying artwork, WOCA’s event emphasized the importance of self-expression through artistic avenues. Michael Chylinski, a returning artist, says art plays a key role in cultivating his mental health. 

“It’s really helping me stay busy, keeps you from thinking bad thoughts in your head,” Chylinski said. “They just let anybody that is letting their feelings out onto paper bring their art and show it. I think that helps a lot.” 

Beyond just visual artwork, the event also showcased local music acts. 

Bands BLSHR and Motelimbo rocked the patio through the evening, providing a healthy mix of covers and original songs. 

Julian Van Aalst, bassist for BLSHR and a third-year music major at Cal State Fullerton,  recognizes the importance of off-campus opportunities when it comes to the pursuit of musical endeavors. Events like WOCA function to bridge the gap between visual and performing arts by hosting them together.

“As artists ourselves, it’s dope to have these places that we can just all come together and express ourselves and show what we have created,” said Miguel Sarmiento, the lead singer and guitarist of BLSHR. 

Patrons of the event also echoed this sentiment. Seeing others’ passions on display inspires more people to take part in creative endeavors and lowers the barrier to entry into artistic spaces. 

Aspiring artist Novastarr Nelson attended the WOCA event looking for a chance to get out of the house and walked away with newfound confidence. 

“[The event] definitely had an impact on me as an artist who is aspiring to go out and do more things in the community,” Nelson said. “I feel like I can come out here to Radiant Beer Co. to make that happen for myself now.” 

Artists and art enthusiasts alike can enjoy WOCA’s next event, scheduled for Jan. 18, 2025, at Radiant Beer Co. in Anaheim.