As one of the most progressive art venues behind the Orange Curtain, the OC Museum of Contemporary Art dedicates its exhibition space to alternative, cutting-edge imaginings that focus on what it calls, “the quality of encounter.” Experimentation and social engagement are its mantra, and following on the heels of its recent international show, “London Calling,” comes a trip into the darker side of the artists’ world. Welcoming an array of submissions that spotlight the peculiar, perverse and erotic, “Gothic” includes a wealth of pieces influenced by Medievalism, Romanticism, science fiction, Victoriana, punk and the supernatural, all melded together via themes of futurism, the macabre, desperation and more. Curated, appropriately enough, by Irvine Valley College assistant professor of art history, Amy Grimm, “Gothic” welcomes you into the pathological darkness of a multitude of media, including painting, sculpture, illustration, fashion, photography, installation and digital works. Don’t miss Carrie Anne Baade’s delightfully disturbing rabbit lady, Michael Blake’s creepy-crawly cockroach mirrors and Kelley Hensing’s fascinating and surreal bug-headed lady. It’s all “deadly serious,” says Grimm, and sometimes comical, so paint on your heroin eyes, slip into your chains and clip on your funny clown nose—as long as it’s black.

IF YOU GO

What: “Gothic.”

When/Where: Feb. 2 thru March 10, Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, 117 N. Sycamore St., Santa Ana.

Info: The opening reception is Feb. 4 at 6pm. Visit www.occca.org.