Beyond The Streets will present Let There Be GWAR, a major retrospective honoring the 40-year legacy of Richmond-based collective and shock rock band Gwar. Opening September 13 and running through November 2, 2025, the free exhibition takes place in Los Angeles and is curated by Bob Gorman and Roger Gastman.
Formed in 1984 by artists and musicians in an abandoned dairy plant in Richmond, Virginia, Gwar combined punk, heavy metal, and performance art with a science fiction mythology. Over four decades, the group developed a distinctive visual universe through handmade costumes, elaborate stage props, and satirical live performances.
Let There Be GWAR is the most comprehensive exhibition of the band’s history to date, featuring original costumes, instruments, video installations, stage set pieces, artwork, and archival ephemera. Installations will include fan-favorite stage elements such as spew tanks and monster props.
The exhibition coincides with the release of a co-branded collection between Beyond The Streets and Gwar, including:
- An expanded edition of the Let There Be GWAR book with a limited 7” record
- A printed archive of the band’s Mind Control Monthly newsletter
- Limited edition apparel and art prints
In addition to two Grammy nominations, Gwar’s cultural impact includes appearances on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, TEDx, and Beavis and Butt-Head, as well as comic books, video games, and their own bar in Richmond.
The exhibition is free and open to the public. Full details and updates are expected to be posted on www.beyondthestreets.com and the band’s official site.