'Celebrate 40 Years of Metal's Bloodiest Band at "Let There Be GWAR" Exhibit'

GWAR Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Multimedia Exhibit

GWAR marked their 40th anniversary with an exhibit titled "Let There Be GWAR" at Beyond the Streets gallery in LA. The exhibit showcases the band's sci-fi artistry through costumes, props, comics, and live performances.

Bob Gorman, a key member of the band's artist collective, described GWAR as a group of like-minded individuals creating art inspired by comic books and gaming culture. Each band member embodies a character within their narrative.

The exhibit features original artwork, costume designs, and memorabilia from the band's early days, curated by Gorman and Beyond the Streets founder Roger Gastman. They also co-authored a coffee table book titled "Let There Be GWAR."

Gastman emphasized the craftsmanship and artistry of GWAR, highlighting the band's handmade creations over the past four decades. The exhibit aims to provide fans with new discoveries upon each visit.

The exhibit pays tribute to all past and present members of GWAR, including late lead singer Dave Brockie. The display also acknowledges the creative tensions between Brockie and founding member Hunter Jackson.

Fans, including notable figures like Metallica's Robert Trujillo and Devo's Mark Mothersbaugh, have visited the exhibit. Super fan Anthony Mejia praised GWAR for being a welcoming community that resonated with his interests in art, music, and humor.

The exhibit delves into GWAR's early punk roots when they rehearsed in an abandoned dairy building. It also showcases their iconic stage props, such as tanks and air compressors used to spray fake blood on the audience.

Documentary filmmaker Eric Pritchard commended GWAR for their theatrical performances and inclusive approach to engaging the audience. He noted their enduring appeal and DIY aesthetic that resonates with fans of horror and camp entertainment.

"Let There Be GWAR" will run at Beyond the Streets in Los Angeles until November 2nd. On October 24th, the band will perform on the Shudder Channel as part of "Splatterween" on The Last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs.