Preview Weekend With the Artist June 5 – 8, 2025
Blue Skies, Shimmering Seas
Presenting Blue Skies, Shimmering Seas, a luminous five-year journey through Santa Barbara as seen through the eyes of celebrated marine artist Brad Betts. A Signature Member of the American Society of Marine Artists, Betts brings his East Coast mastery to the California coastline with a series of plein air paintings that capture the region’s radiant light, lush gardens, and iconic architecture.
From golden-hour coastlines to sunlit bougainvillea, Betts’s plein air paintings evoke the rhythm, beauty, and soul of the American Riviera.
We are thrilled to offer a very special Preview Weekend with the artist June 5th - 8th. The celebration starts on Thursday, June 5th, with a private Preview Reception, followed by the 1st Thursday Art Walk. On Friday, June 6th, guests are invited to an artist talk and live painting demonstration at the gallery, offering insight into Betts’ evolving plein air technique.
On Saturday and Sunday, June 7th–8th, join the artist outdoors for guided plein air painting sessions along Santa Barbara’s picturesque coastline—an immersive opportunity to paint alongside Brad Betts in the landscapes that have inspired his work.
On View June 20 – July 20, 2025
*Please note: Following the preview weekend, the gallery will host a special Children's Exhibition for Bright Start from June 12–15. Blue Skies and Shimmering Seas will officially re-open to the public on June 20 and remain on view through July 20.
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Exclusive Preview Weekend Thursday, June 5 – Sunday, June 8, 2025
Meet the Artist: June 5 from 4 – 5 PM
1st Thursday Art Walk: June 5 from 5 – 8 PM
Artist Talk: June 6 from 5 – 7 PM
Plein Air Painting with Brad Betts: June 7 and 8 from 10 – 12 P
Preview Opening Thursday July 25, 2025
¡Viva La Fiesta!
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Santa Barbara this July with ¡Viva La Fiesta!, an exhibition showcasing the dynamic works of Pedro De La Cruz. A self-taught artist born in Tijuana, Mexico, and now based in Santa Barbara, De La Cruz's paintings are renowned for their vivid colors and expressive portrayals of community life.
Drawing inspiration from the city's cherished Old Spanish Days Fiesta—a tradition since 1924 that honors Santa Barbara's rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and gatherings —De La Cruz pays vibrant tribute to Santa Barbara’s beloved Fiesta traditions — alive with color, culture, and community. Capturing the essence of this festive celebrations, his artworks reflect the joy, resilience, and unity that define both the Fiesta and the broader community.
Join us for an exclusive preview on Thursday July 25th, followed by the opening reception on Friday, July 26th. The exhibition will be on view through August 31st.
On View July 26– August 31
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Preview Reception July 25 from 5 – 7 PM
Opening Reception July 26 from 5 – 7 PM
Art With Heart - June
Botanic Gardens
Art has the power to inspire, connect, and give back. Each month at Art & Soul, we donate a portion of our proceeds to a charitable organization—one thoughtfully chosen to reflect the themes of our current exhibition or the passions of the featured artist. It's our way of honoring the deeper connections between creativity, community, and compassion.
By supporting Art & Soul, you’re not only investing in meaningful art—you’re also helping to make a positive impact, one exhibition at a time.
This month, we are proud to support the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens. As the first botanic garden to focus exclusively on native plants, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden has dedicated nearly a century of work to better understand the relationship between plants and people. Learn more here
Wines with Soul — June
Brander Winery
At Art & Soul, we believe that great art deserves a perfect pairing. Each month, we feature a local wine that complements the spirit and style of our current exhibition.
This June we’re delighted to serve wines from Brander Winery, celebrating 50 years as one of Santa Barbara County's pioneering wineries. Founded in 1975 by Fred Brander, the family-owned estate is nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley and has built a legacy around producing elegant, estate-grown wines—especially the acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc.
Today, Brander's winemaking is led by Fabian Bravo, who has been part of the Brander team for over two decades. With a deep understanding of the land and a passion for innovation, Fabian continues to elevate our wines while staying true to the vision that has defined Brander for half a century.
"As we honor this milestone year, we are especially proud to support events that uplift our creative community. Art and wine share a common language—of place, expression, and connection—and we believe both are essential to a vibrant, inspired life. It’s an honor to contribute to this celebration of local artistry and to stand alongside others who are dedicated to preserving and enriching the cultural fabric of our region."
Come experience how these dynamic wines pair with Blue Skies, Shimmering Seas, and discover more about these exceptional wines and the story behind a winery that shares our passion for creativity and connection.
