WHat is that
IN THE FUNK ZONE: January 10th - February 9th
What is That
Santa Barbara-based artists Eric Dover and Mike Demavivas come together for an evocative exploration of perception and meaning in their upcoming show, What is That: An Artistic Dialogue Between Photography and Dioramas
Eric Dover, a celebrated photographer, captures the striking beauty of inanimate objects, architecture, and places through his masterful black-and-white imagery. Inspired by his childhood passion for visual storytelling and a lifelong love of contrasts and travel, Eric’s work delves into the emotional patterns of society, inviting profound connections between the art and its viewers.
Mike Demavivas, known for his surreal, abstract dioramas, creates intricate visual narratives that weave together elements of nature, humanity, and the environment. Using found objects, recycled materials, and vibrant lighting, Mike transforms overlooked elements into thought-provoking miniature worlds, exploring themes of ecological and social urgency with immersive compositions that inspire reflection.
Together, these two visionary artists present a dynamic dialogue on the interplay of the tangible and the intangible, encouraging viewers to reconsider their perspectives and uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary.
On View in the Funk Zone January 10th - February 9th
IN THE FUNK ZONE - 116 Santa Barbara Street
in the arts district: December 12th - February 2nd
the art of place
Artist Talk: Friday January 31st, from 5-7pm
Celebrating the contemporary voices of Santa Barbara, Art & Soul's new location in Downtown Santa Barbara features the work of Brad Betts, John Baran, Pedro De La Cruz, and Sylvan Butera Rich. We are located in the ARTS District, next to the Arlington Theatre and Opal Restaurant.
Brad Betts, ASMA, came to our attention on a chance meeting in front of Dart Coffee, in the Funk Zone. An acclaimed maritime artist with an impressive gallery in Boothbay, Maine, Betts has been painting scenes of Santa Barbara since 2020.
As an artist and professional photographer, John Baran’s photography inspires both his abstract and wildlife fine art paintings and commissions. He has a studio gallery in the Funk Zone, and spends countless hours on land and in the sea as inspiration for his work.
The art of Pedro De La Cruz reflects a deep cultural mosaic, steeped in a childhood in Mexico where art became his sanctuary. De La Cruz’s influences are both local and traditional, which is evident in the original artwork he creates in his studio in the Funk Zone of Santa Barbara, CA.
Art has been a life-long passion for Sylvan Butera Rich. Landscapes, color and tranquility are the defining themes in her large-scale abstract paintings, capturing the energy and complexity of the California Central Coast.
On View on State Street December 12th - February 2nd
IN THE ARTS DISTRICT - 1323 State Street
Artist Talk - Friday, January 31st from 5-7pm
In the Arts District: February 6th - March 2nd
Medicine Woman
Opening Reception, First Thursday, Febuary 6th from 5-8pm
"Through the art that is created, spirit channels a surge of emotions, sensations, colors and retrieval.” Embark on a spiritual journey with Santa Barbara artist and healer, Nika Vaeshun, and her latest exhibition, “Medicine Woman”, where each piece invites the viewer into a space of reflection, awakening, and communion with the transcendent.
Nika Vaeshun, a Greek American artist from California’s central coast, draws profound inspiration from her spiritual journey and connection to the natural and metaphysical realms. Her work has been featured along the Pacific Coast and in cultural hubs like Lake Tahoe and Nevada City. Guided by a deep devotion to higher consciousness and illuminated awareness, Nika’s art embodies a sacred exploration of light, spirit, and transformation.
Influenced by her experiences with plant teachers, spiritual guides, angelic energies, and the elemental and animal kingdoms, Nika weaves these connections into her creative process. Her journeys with healers and wisdom keepers from diverse traditions further inform her visionary practice. Through her work, she channels a deeply personal and universal narrative of healing, growth, and self-discovery. Each piece invites the viewer into a space of reflection, awakening, and communion with the transcendent.
On View in the ARTS District February 6th - March 2nd
Opening Reception: First Thursday, February 6th, from 5-8pm
IN THE ARTS DISTRICT - 1323 State Street
In the Funk Zone: February 13th, from 5-8pm
Hearts for Arts
We are thrilled to announce Hearts for Arts, a special collaborative exhibition honoring the artists who have filled our Funk Zone gallery with creativity and inspiration over the past year and a half. On February 13th, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, join us for an evening dedicated to celebrating art, community, and the journey we’ve shared in this special space.
Heart for Arts features works from artists who have exhibited with us, offering a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant talent that has shaped our gallery. Proceeds from the evening will go directly to the artists and to support various artist funds in Santa Barbara—continuing our commitment to uplifting this creative community.
Although we’re closing this chapter in the Funk Zone, our ARTS District gallery on State Street will remain open, and we’re actively seeking a new Funk Zone location to build an inclusive community arts space. In the meantime, our neighbors at Lama Dog will take over the current space, expanding their business and bringing new energy to 116 Santa Barbara Street.
We are incredibly grateful for the support of our artists, patrons, and the Santa Barbara community. Join us as we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and look forward to an inspiring future for the arts.
Opening Reception: Thursday, February 13th, from 5-8pm
IN THE FUNK ZONE - 116 Santa Barbara Street
