Make the Santa Barbara Art Museum Part of Your Thanksgiving Tradition
With Thanksgiving around the corner, why not add something special to your holiday plans? The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, located on State Street in the heart of downtown, offers a perfect way to enjoy time with friends and family while exploring incredible art. It’s a great place to connect, reflect, and create new traditions together.
The museum recently completed a $50 million renovation, designed by architect Bob Kupiec, making it even more inviting for locals and visitors alike. Among the exhibits is the striking "Portrait of Mexico Today," showcasing the only intact murals by David Alfaro Siqueiros. On November 23, a new show debuts, adding even more to the museum's diverse collection, which includes everything from contemporary works to historical pieces.
I recently visited the Accretion exhibit during a First Thursday Art Walk. It features works by women artists living in the U.S. with roots in Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, and Peru. These pieces tell personal, layered stories and celebrate the richness of diverse cultural experiences.
Another must-see is the Stillness photography exhibition, which invites visitors to pause and reflect—a perfect antidote to the holiday rush.
The museum isn’t just about admiring art; it’s about engaging with it. From hands-on workshops to art classes, there’s something for everyone, making it a true hub of creativity in our community.
I also want to shine a spotlight on my dear friend and fellow Rotary SB Sunrise Rotarian Karen Kawaguchi, who has been a dedicated part of the museum’s story for years. Her passion for art and the Santa Barbara community adds so much to what makes this place special.
This Thanksgiving, take a moment to explore the Santa Barbara Art Museum. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season, discover something new, and reflect on all we have to be thankful for.
Plan your visit and stay connected with the museum on social media or through their newsletter. Let this be the year art becomes part of your holiday tradition.
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