Santa Barbara, California is more than a town on the central California coast with breathtaking views of rocky cliffs overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean; Santa Barbara is a town rich in history, culture, and home to some of the finest art galleries in all the world. There's something about an ocean village that calls to an artist, entreating him or her to create masterpieces and this charming city is no exception. A plethora of artists make their home on the sea here, mastering their craft so it speaks to our hearts and souls. Keep reading for a list of galleries that we think are the best in Santa Barbara and maybe the entire world! Divided into zones, the Santa Barbara art galleries you find here are varied and exciting. You might have to plan multiple vacations for the chance to see them all!
As labeled, the Funk Zone contains galleries with a modern and funky bent. Housed in warehouses and buildings converted from warehouses situated between the Ocean and Highway 101, these galleries are fun and fascinating examples of art & design. Featuring a mixture of modern art paintings, figure work, sculpture and installations, the Michael Irwin Studio 121 fascinates and amazes. Located at121 Santa Barbara Street, this is our favorite gallery in the Funk Zone, but don't let that stop you from exploring all the others in the zone - we really like them all!
Featuring tree-lined streets, Mediterranean-style businesses and sidewalk cafes, historic downtown Santa Barbara is a wonderful place to people watch, dine, and visit galleries filled with awe inspiring art. Our favorite in this zone is Sullivan Goss - An American Gallery, which specializes in only American art. With over 3000 works and twenty exhibitions offered each year, Sullivan Goss has been delighting folks with their selection of American wall art and sculptures for over 30 years. Located at 11 East Anapamu Street, the paintings, drawings, watercolors, print, and sculptures found here are something special.
Located just a few minutes down the road, but still close enough to be considered part of the Santa Monica Gallery Scene, Montecito has quite a few noteworthy galleries. The one that tops our list mixes philanthropy with beauty by holding nonprofit events that benefit the starving artists of the area. The Gallery Montecito contains exciting and colorful art pieces that will touch your soul.
Santa Barbara art galleries listed here are just the tip of the iceberg. Everywhere you turn in this charming ocean village you will discover a new gallery featuring the best artists of California. Our staff at Paradise Retreats is continually are amazed at the quality and beauty that surrounds us and we try to recreate that beauty in the vacation homes we manage. Book your vacation today and start exploring the art of Santa Barbara tomorrow - the coast of California awaits!
