Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine Winter 2019 Issue

SANTA BARBARA SEASONS | Winter 2019

Santa

B a r bar a

C E LE BR ATING LIFE & C ULTUR E ON THE C E NTR AL COA ST

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winter

10 WONDERFUL

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Winter Wine Tasting Adventures

C E L E B R AT I N G L I F E & C U LT U R E O N T H E C E N T R A L C O A S T

6 CREATIVE COUPLES ON THE ART OF BEING TOGETHER RETRO-CHIC SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS

BRIGHT IDEAS FOR BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

Winter 2019 | sbseasons.com

sbseasons.com

w o N n e p O o i Design Stud

1235 COAST VILLAGE ROAD I 805.969.0442 I SANTA BARBARA, CA 93108 FOUR SEASONS RESORT THE BILTMORE SANTA BARBARA 805.969.3167 I MONTECITO, CA 93108 I WWW.SILVERHORN.COM

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ANN JAMES N T E R I O R

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Big Names. Small Room.

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24 MAR

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David Bromberg, David Hidalgo and Larry Campbell The American Crossroads Trio

Bill Frisell,

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Featuring Petra Haden, Thomas Morgan & Rudy Royston

The John Pizzarelli Trio

MAR The Derek

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Douget Band

Sponsored by the Bentson Kauth Family

Arlo Guthrie: Alice’s Restaurant

MAR Back By Popular Demand tour

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sponsors

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LOBERO THEATRE ENDOWMENT FOR AMERICAN ROOTS MUSIC

Featuring Sarah Lee Guthrie, Abe Guthrie, Terry A La Berry, Steve & Carol Ide

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THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE Discover the magniÞcent French inland waterways onboard the Apres Tout.

Your own cordon bleu trained chef., Caroline is at home in the kitchen, a master of the culinary delights, she likes nothing better than to share her skills. Join her in the kitchen, of course accompanied with a glass of the burgundyÕs Þnest.

Your personal tour guide will share his passion for wine, history and culture.

Captain Rory and CŽdric will be taking extra special care in navigating and of course your every need will be taken care of by our wonderful hostess, who likes nothing better than to pamper you.

Memories are for life, so letÕs make them count. Join us for a fabulous week on the Apres Tout and have a week we will all remember and cherish.

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LAURA DRAMMER Luxur y Properties Specialist Representing Santa Barbara & The Santa Ynez Valley

Top 1% of Berkshire Hathaway Agents Nationwide 1170 Coast Village Road, Montecito | 2933 San Marcos Ave Suite 102, Los Olivos w w w.L auraDrammer.com | L aura@L auraDrammer.com | 805.448.7500

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©2018 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS.

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F E AT U R E S 47 THE ART OF BEING TOGETHER

SIX CREATIVE COUPLES

Written and Photographed by Leela Cyd

60 BRIGHT IDEAS FOR BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

By Cheryl Crabtree Photographs by Amy Barnard 66 WINTER GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING

Written and Styled by Judy Foreman

Photographs by Mehosh

72 RETRO-CHIC REVIVAL AT THE

SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS

By Leslie Dinaberg

At home with Nick Stockton and Sally England, photographed by Leela Cyd. 8

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(L-R) ALEXANDRE GALILEE, R&D LOS OLIVOS, PRESQU’ILE WINERY

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32 DEPARTMENTS 14 Editor’s Letter + Editor’s Picks

16 Local Lowdown

Wine Bars, Beer News, In Search of Winter Calm, Squire Foundation, Silverhorn, SBCast, R&D Los Olivos, Pura Luna, Hitching Post, Tyger Tyger, Fable Soap, Dylan Star, Dart Coffee Co., Monkeyshine, Musical Milestones, Montecito’s Upper Village and More!

32 Datebook and Cultural Calendar Performing and Visual Arts and Other Favorite Events for Winter

34 On Exhibit

Featured Artists at Local Galleries

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41 Poetry

“Delicate as December”

BY GEORGE YATCHISIN

42 First Person Nancy Gifford

BY CHERYL CRABTREE

44 Legacies

Slingshot Alpha Art Studio and Gallery

BY CHUCK GRAHAM

46 Legacies Santa Barbara International Film Festival

BY LESLIE DINABERG

76 Our Guide to Santa

Barbara Urban Wineries

78 Wine Country

10 Wonderful Winter Wine Tasting Adventures

BY WENDY THIES SELL

80 Our Guide to Tasting at the Vineyard: Santa

Santa

Barbara County Wine Map

82 Food & Wine

Next Level Hotel Dining

BY NANCY RANSOHOFF

84 Our Dining Out Guide

B a r bar a

C E LE BR ATING LIFE & C ULTUR E ON THE C E NTR AL COA ST

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winter

10 WONDERFUL

+

Winter Wine Tasting Adventures 6 CREATIVE COUPLES ON THE ART OF BEING TOGETHER RETRO-CHIC SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS

BRIGHT IDEAS FOR BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

to Favorite Area Restaurants in Santa Barbara County

90 Tee it up! Golf in Santa Barbara County

92 Explore Santa Barbara County 40 great things to do in Santa Barbara, Montecito, Summerland, Carpinteria, Goleta, Back Country, Santa Ynez, Solvang and Los Olivos

96 My Santa Barbara

Dan Levin’s Lonely Hearts

ON THE COVER THE COURTYARD AT THE SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS. PHOTO COURTESY SKYVIEW. 10 WONDERFUL WINTER WINE TASTING ADVENTURES, PAGE 78.

WI N T ER 2019 • VO LU M E L X I • N U M B ER 4

PUBLISHER

Brian Kramer M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Leslie Dinaberg A R T D I R E C TO R

Keely Brittles C O P Y E D I TO R

Laurie Jervis C O N T R I B U T I N G E D I TO RS FOOD

Nancy Ransohoff

POETRY

David Starkey

TRAVEL/SLO COUNTY STYLE

Cheryl Crabtree

Judy Foreman

C A L E N DA R E D I TO R

Jessica Morrelli C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E RS

Cheryl Crabtree, Leela Cyd, Leslie Dinaberg, Judy Foreman, Chuck Graham, Taryna Hollinger, Nancy Ransohoff, Hana-Lee Sedgwick, Ashley Self, Wendy Thies Sell, Tracy Shawn, Nancy Shobe, George Yatchisin C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E RS

Amy Barnard, Leela Cyd, Mehosh E D I TO R I A L I N T E R N S

Jordan Duggan

Copyright 2019, Tiger Oak Media, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

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Margie Grace, Principal at Grace Design Associates named 2018 International Landscape Designer of the Year by APLD

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Editorial and advertising offices: 829 De la Vina Street, Suite 210, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

Telephone 805/564-8804. Fax 805/564-8802.

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GREEN BUILDING FEATURE

ADD “GREEN” TO YOUR WALLET

W

e often find that, while many of our clients go into remodels wanting a green approach, they frequently decide against green selections as they look to minimize the remodel and price per square foot costs. We think this is a mistake. And it’s not only because greening your home is better for both our planet and for your family.

While going greener with your remodel may cost a bit more on the front end, chances are you’ll make back your money plus some once your remodel is complete. Here are four reasons why you should consider a greener remodel as an investment instead of an extravagance.

1. The average U.S. household spends a whopping $2,150 on annual energy bills. Bringing your whole home up to California’s Title 24 standards will not only save more than $6,000 in energy over 30 years, but an estimated 300 thousand gallons of water, to boot. Additional air sealing and insulation measures will further enhance your energy savings and comfort. Solar strategies add another dimension to overall energy savings.

2. A recent peer-reviewed study found that high performance homes sell for a premium of 3.46%, on average. Even if you’re not looking to sell in the near term, the features you add now can add dollars to your selling price down the road…and give your real estate agent a listing that’s more tantalizing to potential buyers.

3. Green building materials are often much more durable than their less green counterparts. For homeowners, this doesn’t just mean less home maintenance expense, but less effort and headache replacing components down the line.

4. Improved indoor air quality can make your family feel more energetic, minimize doctor visits in the near term, and help to prevent against respiratory issues later.

For more information or for a complimentary home evaluation, call, click or visit Allen Construction.

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WINTER EDITOR’S LETTER

“When you start to engage with your creative processes, it shakes up all your impulses and they all kind of inform one another” —JEFF BRIDGES

RELATIONSHIPS AND ENDLESSLY FASCINATING,

and the art of making a life together while making art is even more compelling. In our feature on creative couples and “The Art of Being Together,” photographer/writer Leela Cyd teams with six local couples who share how they collaborate, cohabitate and continue on their creative paths together.

A change of scenery is always a great way to relax and recharge your energies—and your relationships. Whether you’re vacationing or stay-cationing, the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country makes a great getaway, especially at the newly refurbished Skyview. Read all about this cool place in “Retro-Chic Revival at the Skyview Los Alamos.” Wendy Thies Sell’s guide to “10 Wonderful Winter Wine Tasting Adventures” also has some terrific recommendations for wine adventures to share with your loved ones.

Beautifully curated by Style Editor Judy Foreman, our Holiday Gift Guide takes you through the winter through Valentine’s Day, and is full of great ideas for everyone in your life, as well as some special items you might have to purchase for yourself (perhaps as a reward for surviving the chaos?). We’ve also got a fun feature from Cheryl Crabtree with “Bright Ideas for Beautiful Bathrooms.”

All of us at SEASONS wish you the happiest of holidays and an even better new year to come. Cheers to a wonderful winter!

Leslie Dinaberg MANAGING EDITOR

leslie@sbseasons.com

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WINTER EDITOR’S PICKS Sure, there are many, many ways to learn about philanthropy and economics, but the San Marcos High School Kids Helping Kids program has to be one of the most interesting and unique. During the course of 16 years, students have raised more than 3.1 million dollars for charitable purposes—to improve the lives of disadvantaged children both globally and locally. This year’s student-run gala benefit concerts feature Ben Rector on Friday, Jan. 11, and Johnnyswim on Saturday, Jan. 12. Both shows take place at The Granada Theatre (1214 State St., Santa Barbara).

For more information, visit kidshelpingkidssb.org.

One of the highlights of my year is always the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which offers a whirlwind 11 days of more than 200 films, tributes and symposiums that range from American indie films to world cinema and everything in between. At press time, Glenn Close, Melissa McCarthy and Viggo Mortensen were set to receive awards, with many more starry tributes to be scheduled. We can’t wait to see what the organizers have in store for this 34th annual event, which takes place Jan. 30-Feb. 9 at various locations in downtown Santa Barbara. For more information and updates, visit sbiff.org.

Named by none other than Time Magazine as one of the “Most Christmassy Towns in America,” the Danish village of Solvang truly sparkles during the annual Solvang Julefest (pronounced Yule-Fest) celebration, taking place from Dec. 1 through Jan. 4. Highlights include the Nisse Adventure Hunt, Candlelight Tours, visits with Santa “Julemanden” in Solvang Park, Shop, Mingle & Jingle Weekends and the Holiday Wine & Beer Walk “Skål Stroll!”

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than a visit to Solvang. For more information, visit SolvangUSA.com.

A salute to one of our favorite grapes, the 2019 World of Pinot Noir includes the opportunity to learn and taste with more than 200 wineries from around the globe. This marquee event, held at the beautiful seaside Ritz-Carlton Bacara Feb. 28 – Mar. 2, features pairing dinners, Pinot Noir parties and expert-led seminars. Other highlights include a Rosé Party on the bluff and a special celebration rare library pairing dinner for the 30th anniversary of Fess Parker Winery. For more information, visit worldofpinotnoir.com.

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, TRACY SMITH, COURTESY WORLD OF PINOT NOIR, COURTESY KIDS HELPING KIDS, COURTESY SBIFF, COURTESY SOLVANGUSA.COM

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LOCAL LOWDOWN

SANTA BARBAR A WINE BARS Exploring the World of Wine from the American Riviera

BY HANA-LEE SEDGWICK WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING to discover a new local producer, taste an obscure variety or sample classic Old World wines, Santa Barbara’s wine bars offer something for every type of drinker, from the novice to bonafide wine connoisseur and everything in between.

ARMADA WINE & BEER Armada attracts locals and visitors to the airy, coastal-inspired space for its welcoming vibe and variety of artisanal offerings. While the list focuses on regional wine and craft beer, with several easy-to-enjoy selections from outside California, it changes regularly to help encourage customers to explore the world of craft beverages. After all, the name is a play on “exploration,” while paying tribute to the Spanish Conquistadors carved into the courtyard’s facade. 1129 State St., Santa Barbara, armadasantabarbara.com.

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, COURTESY ARMADA WINE & BEER (3), ERIN FEINBLATT, COURTESY LES MARCHANDS WINE BAR & MERCHANT

CRUSH TASTING ROOM & KITCHEN The new Crush Tasting Room & Kitchen is dedicated to sharing small-lot wines from up-and-coming producers throughout the Central Coast. The wines are served from an automatic dispensing system designed to preserve the freshness of the wine, while small tastes,

LOCAL LOWDOWN

half glass and full glass offerings make it easy to sample and compare wines at the push of a button. 432 E. Haley St., Santa Barbara, crushsb.com.

LES MARCHANDS WINE BAR & MERCHANT Les Marchands has won fans for its eclectic yet elegant atmosphere, worldly selection of wine and expertly prepared food offerings that change with the seasons. Though the wine list tends to be Eurocentric, with many rare and collectible bottlings available, Les Marchands also has a nice selection of small production wines from local producers and harder-to-find gems from little-known regions around the world. 131 Anacapa St., Suite B, Santa Barbara, lesmarchandswine.com/.

SATELLITE Satellite pairs an interesting wine list focused on natural wines with fresh, inventive snacks and salads. While the wine list may be serious, this small, galaxy-themed wine bar keeps things light-hearted and fun, offering unique events and is home to the only regularly scheduled wine education courses for the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) certifications in town. 1117 State St., Santa Barbara, satellitesb.com.

SB WINE THERAPY Often filled with a younger crowd playing

board games or partaking in a game of trivia, Wine Therapy caters to those looking for a casual place to unwind with a glass of local wine—in fact, all wines on the list are sourced from no more than 50 miles away. Daily happy hour specials, a spacious, dog-friendly interior and regular events, like open-mic night, add to Wine Therapy’s laid-back vibe.

732 State St., Santa Barbara, santabarbarawinetherapy.com.

VILLA WINE BAR Villa features regional and imported wines by the glass, as well as a selection of eight, hard-to-find craft beers on tap that change weekly. Creative tapas, panini’s and salads are also available at Villa, where Spanish tile, an indoor fountain and regular live music add to the overall charm of this cozy, inviting bar. 618 Anacapa St., Santa Barbara, villawinebar.com.

WINE + BEER Located in the SB Public Market in a glassenclosed space, Wine + Beer caters to both wine and beer lovers—as the name implies— looking for a casual place to learn and sip.

A wide selection of beer and wine is available by the bottle, by the glass and to go, and long communal tables add to the convivial spirit of the Public Market. Wine + Beer also offers regular monthly events, providing numerous opportunities to mingle with winemakers,

meet fellow oenophiles and learn something new from the knowledgeable staff as you sip.

38 W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara, wineplusbeer.com.

THE WINE SHEPHERD Owned by the duo behind Los Alamos’ popular PICO Los Alamos restaurant, this unpretentious wine bar and bottle shop offers wines by the glass, flight and bottle, as well as bottles to go. Featuring a selection of smallproduction, lesser-known bottlings from across the globe, including from the Lumen Wines label produced by PICO co-owner Will Henry and Lane Tanner, there’s also a small menu of delectable, house-made charcuterie and local cheeses to accompany the wines.

Don’t miss the “Unicorn Flight,” featuring a rotating selection of rare, vintage wines you won’t find anywhere else. 30 E. Ortega St., Santa Barbara, wineshepherdsb.com.

W I N T E R 2 019

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A NEW MARKETPLACE IN THE FUNK ZONE Acme Hospitality’s newest venture adds color—both literally and figuratively—and a convivial spirit to the Funk Zone. BY HANA-LEE SEDGWICK

Located at 121 Yanonali St., the 1,900 square-foot marketplace is anchored by Tyger Tyger, a “fast-fine” dining concept focused on coastal Southeast Asian cuisine.

Inspired by street food from southern Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Tyger Tyger’s culinary program is led by Santa Barbara born and raised Chef Daniel Palaima, an alum of several criticallyacclaimed restaurants throughout Chicago and California.

Featuring a selection of dishes available for dining onsite or for taking out, Tyger

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Tyger’s menu highlights the unique flavor profiles of southeast Asian street food coupled with the bounty of fresh, seasonal ingredients available on the Central Coast. “The combination of clean, vibrant southeast Asian flavors with the incredible ingredients available locally allow us to create something really special,” shares Chef Palaima. “We get to push the edge a bit, taking those traditional flavors and tying it into the Central Coast.”

More than two dozen specialty items are offered, including dishes like squid

salad with glass noodles, fried shallot and fresh herbs; sticky rice with coconut and kaffir lime; weeping brisket with spicy chili jam and mung bean sprouts; and pork belly Báhn Mí with jalapeño and pickled carrot. Complementing the food is a beverage list featuring wine and beer from small producers around the world, chosen specifically to pair with Tyger Tyger’s array of vibrant flavors and spices, as well as non-alcoholic drinks like Thai-style iced tea and passion fruit lemonade.

Adding to the marketplace’s casual,

PHOTOS: ROB STARK

What was once a run-down neighborhood near the train tracks, Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone has since transformed into a burgeoning art, wine and beer wine district that attracts locals and tourists to shop, dine and drink every day of the week.

Aiding in its dramatic transformation has been the growing number of food and beverage concepts established in recent years, many of those conceived by Acme Hospitality, the visionary group behind the popular The Lark, Lucky Penny and Les Marchands, among others. It’s with that same innovative spirit that Acme Hospitality continues to enhance the community with the opening of a colorful new marketplace in the Funk Zone, featuring Tyger Tyger, Monkeyshine and DART Coffee.

convivial vibe is the soft serve counter, Monkeyshine, serving up exotic twists on traditional ice cream with an array of Asian ingredients, as well as DART Coffee, the Funk Zone’s own small-lot, specialty coffee roaster.

Owned and operated by husband and wife team, Erika Carter and David Dart, DART Coffee roasts fair trade organic beans onsite daily, while a menu of prepared drinks and retail coffees are available to go. The marketplace also features spices, hand-woven baskets and other products available for sale.

“We wanted to create a lively casual café that fills an open hole in food offerings of our immediate neighborhood,” says Sherry Villanueva, co-owner/managing partner of Acme Hospitality. “It was critical to us to continue our tradition of welcoming ambiance matched with the highest quality food and service and we’re confident in our team to deliver something extraordinary.”

Housed in the space of a former fishing net storage, originally built in 1945, the marketplace is a dynamic, imaginative, colorful and modern space that draws inspiration from the coastal areas of Southeast Asia while paying tribute to the playful, artistic spirit of the Funk Zone.

Say it your way. Natural coconut fiber doormats 19 ¾” X 29 ½ v“

LOCAL LOWDOWN

BEER NEWS SOME SAY SANTA BARBAR A —famous for its world-class wine—was slow to catch up to the craft beer craze, but this is a year of expansion for the local ale trail. A handful of new beer taprooms opened recently or will soon open in downtown Santa Barbara, joining established local breweries Brass Bear, The Brewhouse, Figueroa Mountain, Pure Order, Third Window, Topa Topa and Telegraph.

Night Lizard Brewing Company opened at 607 State St. at the end of summer. The new tasting room is spacious with high ceilings and a redwood bar, and the brewery’s stainless-steel tanks are within view in the back. All beers are made on site with fresh local ingredients and are named after Central Coast endangered species: Leatherback Blonde, Gnatcatcher IPA, Tiger Salamander

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Saisan, Island Fox Red and Song Sparrow Sour, just to name a few. “We have quite a variety of different kinds of beer. People are impressed that we’re not just pushing IPAs,” says owner John Nasser. “Our hope is to make really great beer, but to also give back to the environment.” Ten percent of all proceeds will be donated to environmental causes. Night Lizard’s goal is to save the planet one beer at a time.

Two years after opening a brewery and taproom in Goleta, Draughtsmen Aleworks has expanded to downtown Santa Barbara.

Five partners, all passionate about beer, started this endeavor to create “quality classic beers and a handful of euphoric concoctions,” says Draughtsmen’s Tami Snow. “Our inspirations are drawn from all over the world with an emphasis on our own local beer tastes in California.” Their second taproom is in the Mosaic Locale at 1131 State St., across from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Draughtsmen partnered with three food and non-alcoholic drink providers: Hook & Press Donuts, Buena Onda empanadas and Juice Ranch. Beers run the gamut from Japanese and Mexican lagers to Irish red ales, English stouts and porters, Belgians and IPAs. Draughtsmen has an ongoing “good karma tap,” giving a percentage of sales to “do-goodery” within the local community.

“We created this endeavor to blend exceptional craft beer with positive social

change,” adds Snow. “And, of course, to have as much fun as we can along the way.”

Captain Fatty’s, with a brewery and new taproom in Goleta, is expanding to the Funk Zone. The grand opening is expected shortly after the New Year. Captain Fatty’s co-owners, Preston Angell and Matt Minkus, are partnering with the popular Corazon Cucina on a cerveceria and taco place called The Project, at 214 State St. “The opportunity to collaborate with Corazon’s Chef Ramon Velasquez and create an amazing environment for beer and food in Santa Barbara is one we couldn’t pass up,” says Angell. He believes that more competition forces everyone to focus on improving quality and all the new beer projects will play a part in “saving State Street.” “It’s a great way for downtown Santa Barbara to liven up a bit, create more foot traffic and buzz and boost tourism,” Angell says.

San Diego-based Modern Times Beer plans to open a Santa Barbara location in early 2019; a 5,000 square foot restaurant and tap room at 418 State St. “Santa Barbara has been in our sights from year one here at Modern Times,” says Modern Times’ Chief Operations Officer, Chris Sarette. “When the opportunity came along to work with some of our favorite people in Santa Barbara on a project together—folks from Barbareno and Test Pilot—on an endeavor aiming to help revitalize the southern end of State Street,

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM LOWER LEFT, COURTESY NIGHT LIZARD BREWING COMPANY (2), COURTESY DRAUGHTSMEN ALEWORKS, COURTESY CAPTAIN FATTY’S, LESLIE DINABERG

BY WENDY THIES SELL

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it was an enthusiastic, ‘Yes!’ We’re excited to bring some of our specialty beers and nascent food identity to the Central Coast.”

The new restaurant will include an indoor bar, a store selling Modern Times merchandise and to-go beers, and 2,500 square feet of outdoor dining and bar space.

Longtime home brewers Trent and Rebecca Hammel and Mike and Aimee Kielborn grew tired of traveling to LA for brewing supplies, so in early 2018 they opened Santa Barbara’s first home brew store in 15 years: BYOB–Brew Your Own Beverage, located at 3445 State St. “Beer is huge right now! We’ve been overwhelmed at the response from the city and all the brewers and fermentation junkies have been coming out of the woodwork and showing us support!” says Trent Hammel. “We are happy to be here to support all the makers in the community.”

BYOB sells all the supplies needed to create beer, cider or kombucha from start to finish.

They also offer a variety of fermentation workshops and are launching recipe kits from several local breweries. “Our goal is to make it a community and to transition all those craft beer and craft kombucha lovers and show them how easy it is to make their own.”

New breweries are popping up (or expanding) all over Santa Barbara, including (clockwise from far left) Night Lizard Brewing (2), Draughtsman Aleworks and Captain Fatty’s.

Hitching Post Wines Saddles Up to First Tasting Room

BY LESLIE DINABERG

YOU KNOW THE SAYING, “location, location, location?” Well, sometimes

Located right next door to the famed Hitching Post 2 restaurant in Buellton (which was so memorably immortalized in the movie Sideways), Hitching Post Wines recently opened its first-ever tasting room, after almost 40 years of winemaking.

The spacious, nearly 12-acre property, formerly occupied by Loring Wine Company, belongs to Frank and Jami Ostini and Gray and Charlotte Hartley. The new tasting room is housed in a mid-century farmhouse with trailing walkways and outdoor seating areas with a view of the Santa Ynez Mountain landscape—including the Ostrich Farm next door. Throughout the property are walkways and casual picnic areas that invite guests to linger over a bottle of wine while taking in the dramatic landscape. Dogs are welcome, too. Longtime friends, Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini have been making wines in Santa Barbara County since 1979. With Pinot Noir as their primary focus, the winery produces about 17,000 cases a year.

The other beauty of this location is easy access to Hitching Post 2’s Santa Maria Style BBQ food pairings. Coming soon will be an expanded lunch menu served from a refurbished 1970s Vintage Airstream trailer.

it takes a while for the right one to become available—but in the case of Hitching Post Wines’ long-awaited tasting room, it was well worth the wait!

Hitching Post Wines, 420 E. Hwy. 246, Buellton, 805/688-0676, hitchingpost2.com.

LOCAL LOWDOWN

THE SILVERHORN DESIGN STUDIO

BY CHERYL CRABTREE IMAGINE YOURSELF in a couturier’s studio, watching an expert dressmaker sewing your dream outfit, tailored to your particular wishes and measurements. Or sitting in a restaurant with an open kitchen, where you can watch a skilled chef create a delectable cooked-to-order dinner.

That’s the type of setting Michael and Carole Ridding envisioned when planning a new studio for Silverhorn Jewelers, a business the Riddings started in 1976 and operated at 1155 Coast Village Rd. in Montecito for 34 years. For decades the jewelry designers practiced their craft in a studio on the second floor, hidden from the public. In November 2018, Silverhorn moved into a sleek, contemporary gallery at 1235 Coast Village Rd., just a block away from its former abode. As before, customers visit Silverhorn to chat with designers about custom jewelry, browse books and sketches from the vast portfolio, and “try on” wax models of commissioned pieces before the jewelers create the final versions. But they can also

view, through glass partitions, the highly skilled team of artisans at work.

“Last year we decided to spend some time dreaming of an ideal situation, a new concept for our retail store. And this is the result of that dream,” says Carole Ridding, Silverhorn’s CEO and president.

Gemologist Michael Ridding points out that the new concept also showcases the exceptionally detailed and skilled work that goes into Silverhorn jewelry. He searches the world to find rare, high-quality gemstones, and handpicks staff from graduates of the few European schools that teach old master jewelry and goldsmith techniques. Qualified candidates have studied for five years and completed apprenticeships. “The importance of highly specialized craftspeople is one of the keys to Silverhorn’s success,” he states.

“Each one of our design team is the very best at his craft and this is essential to our overall look. It is a great collaboration that creates significant, collectible pieces that indeed are rare.

SBCAST

REVOLUTIONARY AND CUTTING EDGE may be

subjective terms. Today we might call Elon Musk revolutionary, while in the 1500s, it was Shakespeare and Galileo. Santa Barbara is home to a passionate advocate for the arts who wants to put the Shakespeares and the Galileos and the Musks of today in a room together where they can riff off each other and collaborate on projects that not only expand the mind, but benefit humanity.

That “room” is the Santa Barbara Center for Arts, Science and Technology (SBCAST), launched two years ago by local visionary

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BY ASHLEY SELF

artist, engineer, and inventor Alan Macy.

SBCAST is a self-defined art incubator, inspired by and modeled after other similar ventures worldwide. The incubator, located in Santa Barbara’s artist’s corridor, is comprised of nine artist residences, several work studios and multiple shared spaces.

According to its founder, “The point of SBCAST is that it’s a watering hole—designed for chance encounters, and a rich environment for creative process.”

SBCAST draws parallels between art, science and technology in that they are all born of creative curiosity and all seek to demonstrate, comment on or affect humanity.

Artists/scientists/integrators migrate through the center for short stays (one to three months) or extended stays (18 months).

Current and past residents include an Ayurvedic practitioner, a seamstress, a renowned street artist, a fabric dyer and a NASA scientist—and that’s just scratching the surface.

The word “incubate” only half defines what SBCAST is all about. The other half is community ambassadorship and educational

outreach. In addition to its monthly First Thursday exhibitions, generously curated by international art community envoy Lynn M. Holley, SBCAST has hosted artisan-led workshops on Oaxacan dying, leather working and even electronic textiles and wearables, often in conjunction with other arts organizations like the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCASB). UCSB’s graduate program, Media Arts & Technology, rents a space and hosts student exhibitions there as well.

SBCAST is currently displaying the works of Czech artist Tom Pazderka, whose “work blends burning, drawing, construction/ deconstruction and painting to strange effect—a particular Czech fatalism mixed with American optimism.” The exhibit, “The End is the Beginning: Tom Pazderka,” will include a panel discussion on the condition of the immigrant in artistic representation at SBCAST. Like those of other featured artists, Pazderka’s moving works, featuring burned and painted wood panels, will echo the halls of SBCAST long after they have moved on. 513 Garden St., Santa Barbara, sbcast.org.

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MUSICAL MILESTONES

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT, COURTESY SQUIRE FOUNDATION (2), COURTESY CAMA, COURTESY SBCAST, ANDREA RUSSELL (2) COURTESY SILVERHORN

BY TARYNA HOLLINGER IT IS EASY TO RECOGNIZE accomplishments in musical performances, but a true milestone is giving back to the community alongside spectacular shows and renowned musical experiences. The accomplishments of the Community Arts Music Association (CAMA) and the Santa Barbara Symphony have only ever been matched with incredible work for people of all ages and backgrounds in the form of music education programs. Both organizations pride themselves on not only being a part of Santa Barbara but also engaging with its community.

One of the oldest arts organizations in Santa Barbara, Community Arts Music Association is unveiling its season program celebrating 100 years of incredible musical performances. CAMA’s mission has always been to add to the city’s cultural life and it has achieved this not only by bringing worldrenowned classical artists and orchestras to Santa Barbara, but also through its constant focus on music education programs for all ages. The centennial season includes performances from the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Russian National Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, London’s Philharmonia Orchestra and many more.

For its 65th season, Santa Barbara Symphony is honoring the time it committed to the community as it grew into the innovative symphony for which it is now known. Founded in 1953, the symphony has always had artistic excellence in mind while working towards making world-class music an integral part of the Santa Barbara community. Along with this, it founded its award-winning Music Education Center to serve more than 10,000 students a year with both in-school and extra-curricular programs. Among the concerts of the upcoming season are performances of “Pictures at an Exhibition,” “Amadeus Live” and “Romeo & Juliet.”

With two of its most renowned musical organization celebrating incredible milestones this year, Santa Barbara’s music world is in for a treat this season. camasb.org, thesymphony.org

Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra will perform March 9 at the Lobero Theatre.

THE SQUIRE FOUNDATION

BY CHERYL CRABTREE

MORRIS B. SQUIRE WAS AN ADMINISTRATIVE

psychiatrist who loved to retreat to his contemporary vacation home, Villa Maria, in a residential neighborhood in the Santa Barbara foothills. Squire was a prolific and eclectic artist who created a vast body of work in various media—including paintings, drawings and sculptures—during a 50-year period. His themes in all media focused on the psychosocial profile of the human being in the world and amid community.

When Squire died in March 2014, he left his Santa Barbara home and his artworks to the Squire Foundation, a nonprofit creative empowerment organization.

“Art was Morris Squire’s way of releasing all that was on his mind onto the canvas at the end of every day so that he could help get into other people’s minds and help them during the day,” explains Executive Director Ashley Woods Hollister. “And I think he really saw the power of creativity to heal and repair the world.”

Today Villa Maria houses Squire’s contemporary artworks and maintains a gorgeous sculpture garden on the property.

The foundation loans the works to a wide range of public venues throughout the United States, including schools, parks and zoos.

Villa Maria also hosts residency programs for established and emerging artists working in all media—anything from poetry, performing arts and visual arts to sculpture, ceramics, coding and graphic design. Public outreach is part of every residency—artists are encouraged to create new work at Villa Maria to show (along with earlier works) at a solo exhibition in the Santa Barbara area at the end of the stay, and are required to give a public lecture and/or workshop.

Photographer Manjari Sharma will reside at Villa Maria in spring 2019.

“This is an artist’s retreat—a sanctuary in every sense of the word,” says Hollister.

The grounds were specifically designed to inspire creative exploration. Part of Hollister’s role as executive director involves hosting the artists in residence, writer salons, and local artists who come to use free studio space in four onsite bungalows.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.THESQUIREFOUNDATION.ORG.

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MONTECITO’S UPPER VILLAGE EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY

BY LESLIE DINABERG PHOTOS BY JORDAN DUGGAN

Despite the global sophistication of its residents, the spirit of small town American is alive and well in Montecito’s low key, charming upper village. While last year’s twin disasters wrecked heartbreaking havoc both personally and professionally, they also helped create an appreciative climate of reflection and gratitude for the simple joys of greeting neighbors and supporting local businesses.

What better time to pay them a visit than during the holiday season.

East Valley Road carves a graceful path through the heart of the village, where several clusters of retail businesses and service providers make their homes on both the mountain and ocean sides of the street.

The porch of the Montecito Coffee Shop/ San Ysidro Pharmacy and the fountain patio of Pierre Lafond Montecito Market are both great spots to catch up on the latest scuttlebutt 24

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or watch the world go by. Other fine eateries include Pane e Vino, Via Vai Trattoria Pizzeria and Montecito Wine Bistro, as well as food purveyors like Montecito Village Grocery and Village Cheese & Wine (which reportedly kept the doors open and locals who didn’t evacuate fed throughout the nearly three weeks that Montecito was clamped down in a post-flood mandatory evacuation).

Shopping for unique items is a pleasure at Imagine Artful Things, a beautiful gem of a store that defies categorization. Trust us, you’re sure to find distinctive gifts for the home as well as everyone on your list (including yourself). Other notable art, gifts and home good dealers in the area include Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (with everything from home décor, to tabletop pieces and gorgeous local artwork), The Stationery Collection, Tecolote Book Shop (complete with a lovely grassy outdoor area to pull up a seat if you just can’t wait to dig into the latest

bestseller), Village Frame & Gallery, Clare Swan Clothing & Travel and Jenni Kayne Home & Apparel.

An impressive number of antique stores are in the area, including Josephine’s Antiques, Davis & Taft Antiques, Country House Antiques, Carty & Carty Antiques, Brostrom Antiques, William Lahman Furniture (a charming mix of antiques, accessories and garden objects) and Haskell Antiques.

Stylish women’s fashions can be found at Juniper Women’s Boutique (the handmade belts are one-of-a-kind), Glamour House Intimate Apparel (which has beautiful nighties and PJs for holiday gifting), Giuliana Haute Couture, Julianne Boutique and two stores— Wendy Foster Clothing and Wendy Foster Sportswear—from Santa Barbara’s long-time doyenne of style.

Health and wellness salons include Skin Essentials, Dadiana, Beauty & Hair Salon and Mareva International. Jewelers in the village

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include Bryant & Sons Jewelers, Tresor Fine Jewelry & Collectibles, George Meta Jewelry and Oliver & Espig Gallery of Fine Arts.

In addition, there’s a wealth of services available in the upper village, including Automotive & Repair, Montecito Village Hardware, Sotheby’s International Realty (Sandy Stahl and an additional office), Wells Fargo Bank & Trust, ACI Jet, Blake Ashley Design, Montecito Executive Services, Montecito Library, Montecito Associates, Union Bank, Santa Barbara Travel Bureau, Elder Studio, Northern Trust (two offices), Coldwell Banker, Hogue & Co. Florists, House of Honey, American Riviera Bank and Gazebo Gardens.

In keeping with the small town retail vibe, many of these retailers are entirely owner run and operated, ensuring a personal touch. Please call individual stores for hours of operation, as they can vary.

PHOTO:

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TREASURE HUNTING AT R&D LOS OLIVOS

BY NANCY A. SHOBE

A NEW MOON’S RISING ​​T UC KED AWAY INTO

what was once a bridal shop is a new happening of feminine sacred space, Pura Luna Women’s Apothecary.

Since its founding in October 2017, the wife duo Ashley (Ashe) Kelly-Brown and Christin Brown have been helping women learn how to heal their whole selves—mind, body and spirit. ​ The Browns’ neighboring Luna Bella Salon Makeup and Hair resides just around the corner on Mission Street. The Browns were inspired to open Pura Luna because, “Our other business is about helping women feel good on the outside. We really wanted to create something that would make women heal in a more holistic way… our motto or hashtag is ‘helping women heal themselves,’ ” says Kelly-Brown. ​With its minimalist design and modern interior, Pura Luna sports a wide range of merchandise from organic medicinal herbs, extracts and tonics, and women-owned goods.

For those with special issues or conditions, a consultation with herbalists Kelly-Brown or General Manager Lizo Love results in an empowering offering of herbs, herbal remedies, handcrafted medicinals or a suggestion to attend one of Pura Luna’s workshops, classes

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arrived in Los Olivos.

“When a store in Los Olivos requested Dorsey’s jewelry for a trunk show, we decided to make it a road trip. Just for fun, I asked Diane to look up rentals. A cute cottage with a pond showed up and we said, ‘let’s go for it’,” says Helman.

Helman, who can be found sometimes sitting outside greeting customers, is a fount of knowledge. Wherever the customer’s eye draws, he educates—whether it be about the handmade desert scarves by Garza Marfa, vineyard rose candles with custom scents, Japanese linen bags, or stunning art by Caroline Huggins and Tadeusz Torzecki.

Dorsey adds, “You should have something of beauty in your life, always. And, you should use them every day.” Such is the premise behind R&D los olivos.

R&D los olivos, 2446 Alamo Pintado Ave., Los Olivos, 505/999-7752, randdlosolivos.com.

BY NANCY A. SHOBE

and/or Full Moon and New Moon ceremonies. ​A special community room in the back of the store has a bookshelf brimming with women-oriented spiritual and healing books and couches for lounging and reading. ​Kelly-Brown’s journey into herbalism was prompted by her own unexplained infertility.

“I lost myself in the process of trying to conceive and, then, literally went on a soul searching journey to Costa Rica and was introduced to plant spirit medicine—working with plants on a more spiritual level,” she says.

“Women’s needs are so dynamic and our

options are so limited—but the options really aren’t limited when we go back to what our great, great grandmothers used to do, and our earth-based medicine and rituals.”

Pura Luna Women’s Apothecary, 2009 Chapala St., Santa Barbara, 805/450-2484,

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, COURTESY R&D LOS OLIVOS (2); COURTESY FABLE SOAP (2); COURTESY PURA LUNA

in the center of Los Olivos’ downtown resides a postage-sized store with big design taste, R&D los olivos. ​ R&D’s 350-sq. ft. space belies its largesse of artisanal treasures—jewelry, art and objets d’art that are as fascinating as the boutique’s owners—artist Diane Dorsey and acclaimed jazz musician and flugelhorn

JUST EAST OF THE ICONIC FL AGPOLE

player Ron Helman.

Dorsey, a born-and-bred in Ohioan, brings a Midwestern love for nature to her jewelry designs. Helman, a native New Yorker, draws in customers with his humor, wit and charm.

It’s easy to see why this dynamic duo works so well together—Dorsey spends most of her days quietly designing in the studio while Helman draws out customers with his engaging manner.

Throughout the store are Dorsey’s hand-cast 18k gold and sterling silver adornments—custom bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings—some with roses and clovers. “I like to incorporate something from the natural world with a relationship to home,” she says. Other jewelry includes pieces from designers Anthony Lent, Johnny Ninos and Susan Highsmith, to name a few. ​ It’s a serendipitous tale of how Dorsey and Helman, who met in a yoga class in Santa Fe,

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A TALE OF BE AUT Y

​

BY NANCY A. SHOBE IT WAS THE FABLES OF AESOP that inspired Jeriel Sydney of Fable Soap & Co to handcraft small batches of skin and personal care lines that are infused with integrity and love. ​The inspiration for Fable Soap ignited after Sydney and her chef husband, Tim Veatch, left their jobs in San Francisco and moved to Italy.

“We were staying in a room that had Aesop’s fables on the walls. The moral of many of the fables are to do what is right and follow your

own path… (As part of a culinary journey) in Italy, we learned how to make soap. When we came home, Tim asked me what I wanted to do. I said that I wanted to make soap—I started with handmade soap for my husband, then my friends. A girlfriend took my soap to a store in San Francisco and they said they wanted to wholesale it.” ​Just like her products, Sydney’s business started organically and grew from there.

Fable’s soap and skincare line are now found in stores and hotels throughout California, and in Minnesota, Colorado and North Dakota.

“I am very particular about the sourcing of my materials,” says Sydney, “If I could, I would only work with female purveyors…we source all of our raw ingredients from ethical, environmentally-friendly sources…”

“And, I’m really excited about our natural skin care line,” she continues. “It’s a little bit different. You can’t find preservative-free skin care on the Central Coast. Our products are targeted at hormonal skin changes because a lot of it is about hormones.” In addition to individual products, quarterly subscription

boxes are offered on Fable’s website.

And, in a way of doing what’s right, Sydney, with her business partner Bobbie Cunningham, offer back to the community. For every bar purchased, a bar is donated to a women’s shelter. fablesoapco.com.

Stay in Touch All Year Long If you don’t currently receive a copy of Santa Barbara Seasons each quarter, now is the time! Stay connected to the Central Coast’s most unique and interesting places, history, events, people and style all packaged in one of the most beautiful publications circulating the west coast. Or subscribe for a friend—Seasons makes a great gift. Head over to our website at sbseasons.com/subscribe and tell us where you would like your copies sent. Annual subscriptions run just $15 for four issues, with 2-year subscriptions just $24 for eight.

Thank you!

C E L E B R AT I N G L I FE & C U LT U R E O N T H E C E N T R A L COA S T

829 De la Vina Street, Ste. 210, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | 805/564-8804 | sbseasons.com

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BY ASHLEY SELF

“Shopping should be fun,” says Erica Brown, proprietor of Santa Barbara’s newest boutique clothing experience, Dylan Star.

And Brown definitely put her money where her mouth is.

Stepping foot into Dylan Star is like walking into your most stylish chum’s closet, complete with a “best friend” who knows exactly what will flatter your figure and make you feel excited about shopping again. Brown defines her style as “whatever makes you feel good,” and credits her years as a hair stylist for her uncanny ability to read and understand people.

Brown, who is also an established hair stylist at Salon U, which adjoins the boutique, as well as a photography assistant to her husband, a local professional photographer. With Dylan Star, Brown wanted to up the ante of clothes shopping in a different way—the experience. In addition to a great selection, Brown takes personal shopping appointments, and if she’s in the store, she’s happy to help, no appointment necessary.

“The style is Boho-chic with an emphasis on quality fabrics. I’ve personally seen and felt every piece I carry and want to offer women clothes that feel as great as they look.”

1719 STATE ST., SANTA BARBARA, OPEN 9 A.M.-6 P.M. TUESDAY-FRIDAY AND FROM 10 A.M.-5 P.M. SATURDAY, DYLANSTAR.COM.

PHOTOS: LEFT, COURTESY DYLAN STAR (3); RIGHT, MARK WEBER, COURTESY VISIT SANTA BARBARA

DYLAN STAR BOUTIQUE

DYLAN STAR IS A DREAM come true for

LOCAL LOWDOWN

IN SEARCH OF WINTER CALM

BY TRACY SHAWN

Arroyo Burro Beach at sunset.

JUST A HANDFUL OF MILES

from the hustle and bustle of Santa Barbara’s winter parades, downtown caroling, and holiday shopping is something both locals and visitors can benefit from: a natural dose of peace and calm.

During the winter months, Santa Barbara’s beaches and trails offer places for quiet contemplation and awe. With cool, crisp temperatures and stunning ocean sunsets, winter in Santa Barbara creates a unique refuge from holiday stress. The beaches, of course, are less crowded during these cooler months, and extreme low tides provide beachcombers with endless tide pools (alive with starfish, sea anemones, crabs, mussels and urchins), plus miles of accessible coastline.

From Carpinteria State Beach, which lies 12 miles south of Santa Barbara; to El Capitan State Beach, 20 miles west of downtown Santa Barbara—and the plethora of beaches between—beachgoers have their pick of wide, sandy shores within a few feet of public parking as well as more secluded

trail-destination beaches below bluffs.

A favorite seaside destination for tourists and locals alike is Arroyo Burro Beach, which residents refer to as Hendry’s (the Hendry f amily owned this beachfront paradise in the early 1900s). Popular with dog walkers, families and surfers, Arroyo Burro Beach provides ongoing swells for the ocean-bound and a long, broad shoreline (which varies with the tide) for the sand-bound. Also, an excellent seafood restaurant, The Boathouse (boathousesb.com), sits within feet of the shore, guaranteeing patrons up-close views of translucent-blue waves and a stunning panorama of red and orange-strewn sunset skies.

For a more “off-the-beaten track” experience, visit More Mesa Beach. Located below the More Mesa bluffs, this out-of-the-way beach is known to be clothing optional (if one turns right (toward Goleta) at the bottom of the stairs—and by local rule—not clothing optional if one turns left (toward Santa Barbara).

Generally, though, the shell and driftwood-strewn More Mesa Beach is unpopulated, except for the infrequent runner, especially during the winter months. The 300-acre bluff top above the beach is a great place for an inclinefree hike or trail run amongst coastal sage scrub, oak woodlands and meadow-like swaths of grass to enjoy mountain and ocean views.

Santa Barbara trails also offer a natural antidote to the holiday hubbub. With humid summer days long past, traversing Santa Barbara trails during the winter months presents hikers with a variety of brisk, breezy excursions through vibrant foliage and

babbling creeks.

One of the county’s most popular hiking destinations, Inspiration Point, is a moderate, 3.5-mile round-trip trek that winds through sycamores, oaks and chaparral. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with gorgeous views of the city, ocean and Channel Islands—and if timed right—another spot to view the glow of a winter sun melting into the sea.

Another beloved hiking destination that lies within minutes from downtown Santa Barbara is located in Rattlesnake Canyon Park. Named for its sinuous, snake-like shape—not for the poisonous reptiles—picturesque Rattlesnake Trail follows a creek as it gently climbs to a meadow. For hikers seeking a more strenuous adventure, there is a connector trail just past the meadow (keep going straight) that goes up the mountain for a spectacular view—and workout!

Whether by the shores or in the mountains (or both), find your own winter bliss this season, Santa Barbara style!

W I N T E R 2 019

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Winter Datebook Seasonal events, happenings and things to do for December, January and February

Jessica Lang Dance, presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures on Feb. 21, The Granada. Photo by Sharen Bradford.

WINTER DATEBOOK The Seven Fingers Les Doigts, Feb. 7

Find updated information and additional events at sbseasons.com/datebook.

Ongoing Through Dec. 23 PETER PAN The season opens with an innovative new production of the high-flying musical, Peter Pan, based on the J.M. Barrie classic tale. Audiences find themselves surrounded by magic as Peter whisks the Darling children away to swashbuckling adventures in Neverland in this beloved family favorite. The musical features an unforgettable score including the iconic “I’m Flying,”“I Won’t Grow Up” and “Never Never Land.” | Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa

Through Dec. 31 LET IT SNOW Check out Santa Barbara’s “best in snow!” Nightly snowfall shows take place twice each evening in Center Court as a flurry of white snow falls down on the Christmas tree, singing carolers, shoppers and families. This magical experience brings joy to adults and amazes children! | 6 - 7 p.m., Paseo Nuevo Shops & Restaurants, 651 Paseo Nuevo, 805/963-7147, paseonuevoshopping.com.

Maria, 805/922-8313, pcpa.org.

Through Dec. 23 THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE In a run-down bar in the Florida Panhandle, Casey’s career as an Elvis impersonator is not going well. With his young wife now pregnant, his luck changes when he meets an aging drag queen. An uplifting music- and dance-filled comedy for the holidays. | New Vic Theatre, 33 W. Victoria St., 805/965-5400 ext. 105, etcsb.org.

Through Dec. 31 SBMA: HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PERMANENT COLLECTION In celebration of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s 75th Anniversary in 2016, this installation highlights some of the most important works of art from SBMA’s permanent collection, as well as several of the most exciting gifts and acquisitions in the areas of modern and contemporary art, photography and the arts of Asia. | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

PHOTO: ALEXANDRE GALLIEZ

Through Dec. 31 FAUVISM TO FASCISM The tumultuous period between the two World Wars is the backdrop for this intimately scaled and timely exhibition, which explores the little-known relationship between modern art and totalitarianism in the work of the French Fauves, Maurice de Vlaminck (1876-1958) and André Derain (18801954). Fauvism was characterized by the use of strident hues applied with gestural brush marks for expressive rather than descriptive ends (derisively described by contemporary critics as the work of “Wild Beasts”) and was considered cutting-edge art of the most experimental kind at the dawn of the last century. However, both Vlaminck and Derain chose to abandon this affiliation, embarking on divergent stylistic paths that caught the attention and eventual support of the arts administration under the Third Reich. Through a selection of drawings and paintings from the permanent collection, this exhibition explores the way the representation of the human body, both in avant-garde terms, and then, as recontextualized by 1930s National Socialism in Germany, resulted in the coopting of a modernist idiom to advance the political agenda of the Nazis—an association that still sullies the critical reception of both of these artists. | 11 a.m.

- 5 p.m. daily, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

Through Jan. 4 SOLVANG JULEFEST Named by none other than Time Magazine as one of the “Most Christmassy Towns in America,” the Danish village of Solvang truly sparkles during the annual Solvang Julefest (pronounced Yule-Fest) celebration. Highlights include the return of the popular Free Nisse Adventure Hunt, new VIP Candlelight Tours, visits with Santa “Julemanden” in Solvang Park, Shop, Mingle & Jingle Weekends and the Holiday Wine & Beer Walk “Skål Stroll!, as well as a Community Tree-lighting Ceremony, Julefest Parade and free Nativity Pageant. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than a visit to Solvang. | Various Solvang locations.

Solvang USA.com.

Through Jan. 6 LET IT SNOW! PAINTINGS OF WINTER French Impressionists Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro are often credited with painting the first snow scenes in their newly minted pictorial language of gesturally applied brushwork and juxtaposed unblended touches of raw hue. But the challenge of depicting snow scenes, which as a matter of course, pose the problem of a limited tonal range that can still blind with refracted and reflected sunlight, has

long been a part of the repertoire in the Western tradition of painting. In this installation, a range of European and American artists are represented— including George Bellows, Henri Le Sidaner, Maurice de Vlaminck, Marsden Hartley, Maurice Utrillo, Colin Campbell Cooper, Bruce Crane, Childe Hassam, Wilson Irvine, Jervis McEntee, Grandma Moses, Walter Palmer and Edward Redfield—and in each canvas, a different motif allows the artist to take expressive advantage of the picturesque effects that snowfall uniquely occasions. Whether the pristine blanketing of a Parisian street scene or the hushed quiet of new snow in the woods of New England, this special installation enfolds the viewer in winter’s poetry as conjured through the brush. | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

Through Jan. 21 NAM JUNE PAIK: TV CLOCK Korean-born, American artist Nam June Paik (1932–2006) blazed a trail with video art that remains influential to this day. Paik’s TV Clock, one of SBMA’s most important media art works, is on view for the first time in nearly a decade.

TV Clock consists of 24 color televisions mounted upright on pedestals that are arranged in a gentle arc and displayed in a darkened space. Paik created each electronic image by manipulating the television to compress its red, green and blue color into a single line against a black background.

Called a “fixed-image television” by Paik, each TV does not involve a videotape, disc or computer chip but an image the artist created by ingenious manipulation of electronic elements. Read in sequence, each static line tumbles into the next to form a dynamic yet elegantly spare rhythm that resembles a universally recognized way to measure time. A crucial work in Paik’s long career, TV Clock offers audiences the chance to experience the art and thought of one of the 20th century’s most innovative and enduringly vital artists. | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

WINTER 2019

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WINTER DATEBOOK Snarky Puppy, Feb. 24

On Exhibit Now

Chris Peters Early Sunday Morning, 2018 Oil on canvas, 30” x 24”

Overview: Chris Peters’s formal education began in Seattle where he received Bachelor and Master degrees from the University of Washington. Later he trained for three years at the Gage Academy of Art, learning the drawing and painting methods of the 19th-century academic tradition.

Peters’s work has been exhibited at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art as part of the private collection of Academy Award winning director Guillermo del Toro. Peters’s collectors include many members of the music and film industries. He has also had eight solo shows at galleries in Santa Monica,

11 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara

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tion, 248 S. Montgomery St., Unit A, Ojai, 805/633-9188,

Through Feb. 4

Gallery: Sullivan Goss–An American Gallery

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5 p.m., Carolyn Glasoe Bailey Founda-

carolynglasoebaileyfoundation.org.

Santa Fe, and New York City.

805/730-1460, sullivangoss.com

YASSI MAZANDI IN RESIDENCE Carolyn Glasoe Bailey Foundation presents a new exhibit, curated by Executive Director Frederick Janka, with a selection of recent ceramic sculptures by the Iranian born and Los Angeles-based Artist Yassi Mazandi. This is the artist’s first institutional solo exhibition on the West Coast and promises to be a tour de force. The innovative strategies in Mazandi’s studio practice have also inspired Carolyn Glasoe Bailey Foundation’s programmatic theme of Learning the Wrong Way. As an artist who is constantly experimenting and challenging conventional approaches to learning, Mazandi actively pushes the boundaries of how one should use material. For example, experimenting with self-defined modes of working with ceramics have led the artist to use paper porcelain to make amorphous and bulbous wheel-thrown pods.

She has also developed an intuitive technique of hand carving clay during many weeks to produce intricate and otherworldly forms.

Both examples of her technique are featured in her exhibition. | 8 a.m. -

SBADA MEMBER

NATURE ABSTRACTED The Wildling Museum in Solvang collaborates with the Santa Barbara based Abstract Art Collective to produce Nature Abstracted. The Wildling’s Executive Director Stacey Otte-Demangate and Westmont College’s Nathan Huff juried the submissions from the members of the

Abstract Art Collective for this exhibit and more than 25 artworks are on sale, with 30% of the proceeds supporting the museum. | Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, 1511 Mission Dr., Solvang, 805/686-8315, wildlingmuseum.org.

Through Feb. 10 PATH OF GOLD: JAPANESE LANDSCAPE AND NARRATIVE PAINTINGS FROM THE COLLECTION This exhibition examines the aesthetics of Japanese art within both private and public interiors by showcasing nine folding screens, two scroll paintings, and examples of lacquerware selected from SBMA’s permanent collection, supplemented by two local loans. The most impressive within the presentation are the screens, dating from the late 16th through the 19th centuries, featuring views of famous places, romanticized historical figures in landscapes, animals, and birds or flora of Japan. Screens were changed seasonally in a traditional Japanese household, selected specifically for a celebration, a gathering of like-minded friends, or a political assembly. A gilded screen enhanced the ambient light in a room, and at the same time, impressed, or even humbled visitors as it reflected the wealth or status of the patron. Also among the treasures in this exhibition is a lavishly decorated 17th-century set of three handscrolls, attributed to Tosa Mitsuoki and illustrating The Tale of Bunshō. Painted with exquisite mineral pigments and gold, the elegantly written calligraphy and pictorial segments narrate a story on the rise of the merchant class and the struggles of women. | Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

PHOTO: VINCENT LE GALLIC

Through Feb. 3

Through Feb. 17 APRIL STREET: THE MARINERS’ GRAND STAIRCASE (ARMOURED STARS AND FLYING CLOUDS) Inaugurating the Park Projects series at Santa Barbara Museum of Art is a site-specific installation by Los Angelesbased artist April Street. The installation takes its inspiration from the historic voyage of Navigator Eleanor Creesy and Captain Josiah Perkins Creesy in the clipper ship Flying Cloud (1851), which set a record by sailing from New York to San Francisco (traveling around Cape Horn in South America) in only 89 days. Comprising 13 three-dimensional paintings in a salon-style configuration, Street’s installation evokes the portrait wall of a grand staircase from ages past. It is also accompanied by sound—an original track by the artist and other actors that may also be construed as an abstracted conversation between the seafaring couple. Referencing history, exploration, mythology and art history, Street’s work invents sublime parallels with both time and place.

The exhibit coincides with the artist’s residency at SBMA’s Ridley-Tree Education Center at McCormick House and a series of interactive projects and environments designed by the artist. Park Projects is a new series of installations utilizing the grand stairwell at SBMA’s Park Entrance. Serving as the Museum’s main point of access during the current renovation project, this space has become the site of temporary installations of works by cutting edge contemporary artists. | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

December Dec. 19 38TH ANNUAL MESSIAH SING ALONG Make a joyful noise! Raise your voice on high! A benefit concert for low-income families, children and the elderly. | 7:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 21 E Constance Ave.,‎805/687-0754, fpcsb.org.

Dec. 20 WRITING IN THE GALLERIES Writers of all levels are invited to participate in this informal exploration

of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s galleries as an impetus to writing.

Each session is led by a visiting writer/ facilitator who begins with a conversation and prompts, partially inspired by works on view. Participants are free to write on their own and then reconvene as a group to share and comment on each other’s work. Please bring a journal or notebook, laptop or tablet on which to write. Each program is open to 12 participants. | 5:30 - 7 p.m., Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

Dec. 22 – 23

THE CHRISTMAS REVELS: AN IRISH CELEBRATION OF THE WINTER SOLSTICE The Christmas Revels: An Irish Celebration of the Winter Solstice is a joyous theatrical production celebrating the spirit and strength of the Irish emigrants who came to America in the early 1900s to build new lives in a new land. At sea over the holidays, these strangers bond over spinning stories, singing songs and sharing seasonal traditions; they form friendships, and find romance.

The Christmas Revels is a favorite Santa Barbara holiday tradition created by and for our community for the past 11 years. Accomplished guest artists, including award-winning actors and Irish dancers as well as vocal soloists, a brass ensemble and a string and wind quintet join the Santa Barbara Revels company for this exciting and heartwarming entertainment experience for every age. | 2:30 p.m., Lobero

Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St., 805/963-0761, lobero.org.

January Jan. 11-12 KIDS HELPING KIDS BENEFIT CONCERTS Sure, there are many, many ways to learn about philanthropy and economics, but the San Marcos High School Kids Helping Kids program has to be one of the most interesting and unique. During the course of 16 years, students have raised more than 3.1 million dollars for charitable purposes—to improve the lives of disadvantaged children both globally and locally. This year’s studentrun gala benefit concerts feature Ben Rector on Friday, Jan. 11, and Johnnyswim on Saturday, Jan. 12. | Granada Theatre. 1214 State St.,

On Exhibit Now

Thomas Lorraine Hunt (1882-1938) Fishing Boats in Harbor, c. 1930 Framed Oil on Canvas, 20” x 24” Overview: Thomas L. Hunt was born in London, Ontario, Canada. His father is artist John Powell Hunt, with whom he studied. Early in his life he moved to the U.S. where he studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, but continued to work in construction, and only paint part time.

He moved to California in 1924, and built a studio in Laguna Beach, where he taught, and exhibited his paintings. He was a founding member of the Laguna Beach Museum. Hunt specialized in painting harbor scenes, landscapes, and coastal views up and down the California coastline, using bold bright colors and a modern technique.

His paintings are in the collections of Bowers Museum, Kansas City Museum and Orange County Museum. In addition, his work was exhibited widely, including at California State Fair, 1923 (1st prize); Penn Academy of Fine Arts, 1924; San Francisco Art Association, 1924, 1927; Painters of the West (Los Angeles), 1925; Painters & Sculptors of Los Angeles, 1926; Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1927; Laguna Beach Art Association, 1927-1935 (1st prizes); California Art Club, 1932-1933; Pasadena Art Institute, 1933 (award); and San Diego Fine Art Guild, 1933 (prize).

Gallery: Stewart Fine Art 215 W. Mission St., Santa Barbara 805/845-0255, dianestewartfineart.com

SBADA MEMBER

kidshelpingkidssb.org.

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WINTER DATEBOOK

Jan. 11

JON BATISTE Multifaceted jazz artist Jon Batiste is seen by millions on television five nights a week as bandleader of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. With his soulful brand of high-energy pop mixed with New Orleans funk and American jazz standards, his 2013 album Social Music with Stay Human topped the charts as the No. 1 jazz album in the world. This must-see solo performance supports his forthcoming album produced by T Bone Burnett. | 8 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC Santa Barbara, 805/8933535, artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu.

Jan. 15

On Exhibit Now

Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997) Steady Gaze, 1950 Color woodblock print, 20-1/8” x 12-1/8” Overview: Kiyoshi Saito was born in 1907 in Fukushima prefecture on the main Japanese island. In 1932, Saito studied art in Tokyo, where he met the modern master Shiko Munakata and discovered and mastered the technique of woodcutting and color woodblock prints. Saito exhibited in the famous Kokugakai Exhibition in 1937 and the Ginza Exhibition in 1939. At this time Saito met Ono Tadashige, Koshiro Onchi and other artists, who eventually came together and created the group known as Sosaku Hanga or “creative print,” challenging the norms of traditional Japanese printmaking. In 1951, at the first Sao Paulo Art Biennial, Saito won awards and presented Sosaku Hanga to collectors around the world.

His work is in esteemed collections including Achenbach Foundation for the Graphic Arts, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Art Institute of Chicago, New York Public Library, Greater Victoria Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Cincinnati Art Museum, Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art, Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Art, NYMoMA (Museum of Modern Art, New York) and LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art).

Gallery: James Main Fine Art 27 E. De la Guerra St., Santa Barbara 805/962-8347, jamesmainfineart.com

SBADA MEMBER

ITZHAK PERLMAN When it comes to Itzhak Perlman, the superlatives pile up quickly, yet somehow fail to give a full account of his status, talent, and near-universal appeal. Perlman’s numerous awards include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Kennedy Center Honor, the National Medal of Arts and a Medal of Liberty. Maestro Perlman returns for his 6th Community Arts Music Association concert appearance going back more than 50 years to when he first performed as a soloist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Admired pianist Rohan De Silva accompanies him. | 7 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Jan. 19 – 20

PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION Composed in 1887, Brahms’ daring double concerto for violin and cello ingeniously combines the sonority and range of both instruments, thereby overcoming the inherent sonic limitations of each. These performances feature the exceptional talents of Jessica Guideri and Trevor Handy, the Santa Barbara Symphony’s concertmaster and principal cellist, respectively. Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition is in intent and effect a musical gallery, evoking a succession of striking tableaus.

Despite its excessive use as an erotic mood-setter in film and elsewhere, Maurice Ravel’s Boléro has lost none of its power to seduce—or inspire the occasional amorous thought. | 8

p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

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Jan. 22

AN EVENING WITH MADELEINE ALBRIGHT Madeleine K. Albright is a professor, author, diplomat and businesswoman who served as the 64th Secretary of State of the United States. In 1997, she was named the first female Secretary of State and became, at that time, the highest-ranking woman in the history of the U.S. government.

From 1993 to 1997, Albright served as the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations and was a member of the President’s Cabinet.

Author of the No. 1 New York Times bestseller, Fascism: A Warning, Albright’s talk and moderated Q&A draws on her experiences as a child in war-torn Europe and her distinguished career as a diplomat to address lessons we must understand and questions we must answer if we are to avoid repeating tragic errors of the past. | 7:30 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Jan. 25

LEONIDAS KAVAKOS AND ENRICO PACE Leonidas Kavakos, a “formidable violinist” (The New York Times) and “prodigious talent, with an astonishing technique” (The Guardian, U.K.) returns to Santa Barbara after his enthralling 2017 performance with pianist Yuja Wang. A musician’s musician, the Los Angeles Times credits him with “the ideal sound for Schubertean lyricism,” which is on full display here in a program highlighting his “shining and sweet tone… but also taut muscularity and a sense of overall structure” (NPR). | 7 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC Santa Barbara, 805/8933535, artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu.

Jan. 26

BLACK VIOLIN – CLASSICAL BOOM TOUR Classical music meets hip-hop in the groundbreaking duo Black Violin and its Classical Boom Tour, blurring the lines between genre, race and gender with its unique, family-friendly fusion of groove and strings. Violist Wil B. and Violinist Kev Marcus are classically trained musicians bringing hip-hop samples and a party atmosphere to their dueling strings. Get up and get down to an unforgettable fusion of strings, beats and rhythms as Black Violin delivers its genre-shattering sound: classical

boom. The fun starts early! Join UCSB Arts and Lectures an hour before the show for face painting, crafts and more. | 3 - 6 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC Santa Barbara, 805/893-3535, artsandlectures. sa.ucsb.edu.

Jan. 26

OPERA SANTA BARBARA 25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CONCERT Enjoy a non-stop hit parade of opera favorites in a concert gala event featuring Isabel Bayrakdarian, Nina Yoshida Nelson, Karin Wolverton, Audrey Babcock, Adam Diegel, Nathan Granner, Lee Poulis, Todd Thomas and Kevin Thompson. This performance honors Marilyn Gilbert, co-founder of the opera company in 1993, and sees Artistic and General Director Kostis Protopapsa and former Artistic Director Valery Ryvkin sharing the baton. | 5 p.m., Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St., 805/963-0761, lobero.org.

Jan. 27

LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO Dancing the fine line between high art and high camp, the internationally beloved Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo has delighted audiences around the world for four decades. With brilliant pointe work and vibrant drag costumes, this all-male ballet troupe delivers a loving tribute to the art form’s ornate glories with witty parodies of dance classics, from Swan Lake to Martha Graham. Combining an encyclopedic knowledge of ballet with a wicked comedic sensibility, the Trocks offer a buoyant and hilarious evening for dance aficionados and novices alike. | 7 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214

STEWART FINE ART

State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Established 1986 Diane Warren Stewart

Jan. 27

JD SOUTHER Grammy-nominated JD Souther has penned countless hits for the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Roy Orbison, James Taylor, Don Henley, George Strait, Trisha Yearwood and Brooks and Dunn, and also found success as a solo artist. This led him to being inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2013 and becoming one of the most celebrated songwriters of his generation. On his latest studio album, Tenderness, Souther creates a perfect balance of understated

Open from 11 to 5:30, closed Thursday and Sunday, available by appointment.

215 W. MISSION STREE T WILLIAM G. PURVIS (1870-1924) SANTA BARBAR A, CIRCA 1920 FR AMED OIL ON BOARD 12” HIGH X 14” WIDE

SANTA BARBAR A, CA 9 3101 805-8 45-0255 PARKING IN BACK

WINTER DATEBOOK

p.m., Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St., 805/963-0761, lobero.org.

Jan. 27 – Feb. 10

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEKS The 2019 Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks return for a ninth consecutive year, and again entice foodies with a once-a-year opportunity. Food lovers savor three-course tasting menus from some of the Valley’s top dining establishments—a rare opportunity to celebrate the food and wine pairings that have made this region the gem of California Wine Country. Extended to two weeks for the first time, the 2019 Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Weeks event features dozens of restaurants and wineries as well as specials from some of the region’s most notable lodging properties. | Various locations throughout the Santa Ynez Valley, visitsyv.com/restaurant-week.

Jan. 28

GEORGE SAUNDERS IN CONVERSATION WITH PICO IYER One of the most important and blazingly original writers of his generation, George Saunders is an undisputed master of the short story, and his surreal, experimental first novel, Lincoln in the Bardo, won the Man Booker Prize in 2017. Saunders’ signature blend of exuberant prose, deep humanity and stylistic innovation has helped change the trajectory of American fiction—and earned him a MacArthur Genius Fellowship and a shelf full of other prizes. But as The New York Times puts it, “aside from all the formal invention and satirical energy of Saunders’s fiction, the main thing about it… is how it makes you feel.” | 7:30 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC Santa Barbara, 805/893-3535, artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu.

Jan. 29

MARTHA REDBONE AND THE ROOTS BAND PROJECT Charismatic songstress Martha Redbone is one of the most vital voices in American roots music.

Embodying her gospel-singing father’s voice and her Cherokee/ 38

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Choctaw mother’s culture, Redbone’s magnificent vocals blend with her band of some of NYC’s finest blues and jazz musicians for “a brilliant collision of cultures” (The New Yorker). The folk and country sounds of her childhood in the Appalachian Mountains and the eclectic grit of her teen years in pre-gentrified Brooklyn come together in a masterful mix of folk, country, Piedmont blues, gospel, bluegrass, soul and traditional American Indian music. | 8 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC Santa Barbara, 805/893-3535, artsandlectures. sa.ucsb.edu.

Jan. 30 – Feb. 10

SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Dedicated to engaging, enriching and inspiring people through the power of film, The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is a nonprofit arts and educational program that offers 11 days of 200+ films, tributes, panels and free events that transform beautiful downtown Santa Barbara into a rich destination for film lovers.

Among the many celebrity tributes, Glenn Close is set to receive the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award on Saturday, Feb 2, for her longstanding contributions to the film industry. Leonard Maltin will return for his 28th year to moderate the evening. | Various locations throughout Downtown Santa Barbara, sbiff.org.

February Feb. 2-Spring 2019

RAY STRONG Ray Strong left an amazing legacy in the Oak Group, which he co-founded with artist Arturo Tello in 1986. The Wildling Museum honored the Oak Group’s work and mission, which aligns closely with its own, with its Wilderness Spirit Award in 2013 and a benefit exhibition that explored the Santa Ynez River and watershed. It is no exaggeration to say that the works of the likes of Thomas Moran, Albert Bierstadt and many more documented the amazing landscapes of the American West, which moved the country to preserve these open spaces for generations to enjoy. How lucky are we to have our very own modern-day example of this in Ray Strong and the Oak Group in our own backyard? |

Folded Art: Origami Animals

by Robert Salazar, Wildling Museum through Mar. 25 Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, 1511 Mission Dr., Solvang, 805/686-8315, wildlingmuseum.org.

Feb. 5

PHILHARMONIA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA Acclaimed as an interpreter of an extensive range of classical music, English-born conductor Nicholas McGegan was appointed Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for “services to music overseas”

by Queen Elizabeth in 2010. McGegan has been the Music Director of the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra since 1985. He established it as the leading period performance ensemble in the U.S. The Philharmonia is devoted to capturing the spirit and unique sound of music, from Baroque to early Romantic periods, by using authentic instruments and stylistic conventions.

American violinist Rachel Barton Pine joins the orchestra for the rarely performed Violin Concerto in D major of violinist Franz Clement. | 8 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Feb. 7

THE 7 FINGERS (LES 7 DOIGTS) PERFORMING RÉVERSIBLE Montreal’s award-winning contemporary circus troupe presents its latest creation, a playful and poignant exploration of the role ancestors play in the shaping of modern identities.

For Réversible, the company’s cast members researched generations of family history, interviewing grandparents and great-grandparents about their aspirations, struggles and secrets. Through astonishing acrobatics, aerial stunts and dynamic dance movement, the artists build

an intergenerational bridge between past and present, then and now. “The collective virtuosity of this troupe is something to see–and, crucially, to feel” (The Boston Globe). | 7 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Feb. 7 – 24

DEATH OF A SALESMAN The American classic Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play. Willy Loman, nearing the end of his career and struggling to make ends meet, is the tragic hero of this timeless story of one’s life not turning out how the character envisioned. | New Vic Theatre, 33 W. Victoria St., 805/965-5400 ext. 105, etcsb.org.

Feb. 7 – Mar. 3

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE This romantic comedy is a whimsical homage to playmaking and a glimpse into the kind of passion that may have inspired one of the greatest love stories of all time. Suffering from a bad case of writer’s block, young Will Shakespeare falls in love with Viola, the daughter of a wealthy merchant. Against a bustling background of mistaken identity, ruthless scheming and backstage theatrics, Will’s love for her inspires him to write his masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet. How it all turns out is a mystery. | Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr., Santa Maria, 805/922-8313, pcpa.org.

Feb. 9

FRIENDSHIP CENTER’S 20TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF HEARTS Last year it was Wonderland–this time it’s an Emerald City theme! Dust off your Dorothy duds, or just wear something green. Enjoy a delicious lunch with local wines, live music,

PHOTO: COURTESY WILDLING MUSEUM

jazz with the ineffable pop narratives that have been the backbone of much of his greatest work. His classic albums John David Souther, Black Rose and Home by Dawn have been released as expanded reissues. | 7

unique heart-art by local artists and celebrities available at a silent auction, and a live auction with travel, adventure and luxury packages for all budgets. You might win the bid on a trip to Oz! | 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/8457442, friendshipcentersb.org.

Feb. 9

KODO – ONE EARTH TOUR 2019: EVOLUTION Japan’s legendary drum ensemble Kodo is the world’s foremost professional taiko company. Exploring the limitless possibilities of the Japanese taiko drum, Kodo is forging new directions for this vibrant living art form through its unstoppably energetic, intricately designed and meticulously choreographed performances. But it is the company’s rigorous training and tireless dedication that gives these drummers their unique edge. Their heartpounding live shows are a dizzying display of power and precision, “a celebration of music, of physicality, of life” (The New York Times). | 7 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Feb. 12-13

DANISH STRING QUARTET Comprised of fierce friends who have been playing together since childhood, the Danish String Quartet has become the darling of A&L’s program for its profound and skillful interpretations of classical masters.

The Nordic lads who possess “warmth, wit, a beautiful tone and technical prowess second to none” (NPR) once again dazzle Santa Barbara with the same irresistible energy that thrills audiences worldwide with two programs: a rousing evening of traditional music from their homeland and a classical evening that highlights their “flawless intonation, infectious energy and masterly poise” (Huffington Post). In this sublime foray into the rich Nordic music tradition, the Danish explore folk treasures in what they call “a nice little niche somewhere between traditional folk and classical music.” | Folk Program, Feb. 12, 7 p.m., Rockwood Woman’s Club, 670 Mission Canyon Rd.; Classical Program, Feb. 13, 7 p.m., Campbell Hall, UC

Celebrating 90 years of service in Santa Barbara County In 1947, Mrs. Lillian Child deeded her estate, Vegemar, to the Santa Barbara Foundation. It was her firm belief that the property should belong to the people of Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara Foundation presented the deed for the Child Estate to the city of Santa Barbara in 1953. Ten years later the estate opened to the public as the Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens.

Santa Barbara, 805/893-3535, artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SBFoundation.org

WINTER DATEBOOK

Feb. 15

Feb. 16 – 17

Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Rd.,

The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St.,

805/695-7908, musicacademy.org.

805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Feb. 16

FRANZ LEHÁR’S THE MOCK MARRIAGE (DIE JUXHEIRAT) Selected from the collection of the Michael and Nan Miller Operetta Foundation, the 1904 women’s suffrage operetta is set in Newport, Rhode Island, and features beautiful melodies, sweeping orchestrations, grand costumes and comedic turns that delight audiences young and old. Both performances by the award-winning UCSB Opera Theatre students are performed in English. | 7 p.m., UCSB Opera Theatre, UC Santa Barbara Music Building 1315, 805/893-7194, music. ucsb.edu.

BEETHOVEN’S TRIPLE The Santa Barbara Symphony returns to a work it co-commissioned more than a decade earlier, acclaimed composer Joseph Schwantner’s enchantingly delicate Chasing Light, before turning its attention to Beethoven’s “Triple Concerto.” The latter features three stellar musicians with a rich history of performing locally: violinist Paul Huang and cellist Ani Aznavoorian, both of Camerata Pacifica, and pianist Gilles Vonsattel, who regularly performs with that celebrated ensemble. Robert Schumann’s popular, five-movement “Symphony No.3” is said to have been inspired by the history and spirit of Europe’s mighty Rhine River. | 8 p.m.,

Feb. 20

NEW YORK POLYPHONY PERFORMING ORIGINS Among today’s foremost vocal chamber ensembles, New York Polyphony explores the boundaries between ancient and modern music.

The Grammy-nominated group performs its provocative program Origins. Centered on the “Missa Charles Darwin,” Origins honors the compositional and harmonic conventions of its musical antecedents but replaces sacred texts with excerpts from Darwin’s writings. Composed by Gregory Brown, the “Missa Charles Darwin” became the inspiration behind

his brother Dan Brown’s latest novel in The Da Vinci Code series. This superb music investigates the intersection of faith and reason and the quest for a greater understanding of life’s mysteries. | 7 p.m., Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Rd., 805/695-7908, musicacademy.org.

Feb. 21

JESSICA LANG DANCE New York-based Jessica Lang Dance–a magnificent company of 10 dancers–debuts a repertoire rich in stunning movement, dynamic visuals and beautiful cinematic composition.

A 2014 Bessie Award recipient, Lang seamlessly incorporates dramatic design elements that transform classical ballet language into artfully crafted contemporary works. JLD’s program–Lines Cubed, The Calling, Glow, Solo Bach, Sweet Silent Thought and Thousand Yard Stare–teems with an array of striking choreography and imagery | 8 p.m., The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/899-2222, granadasb.org.

Feb. 22 – Mar. 3

Martha Redbone, Jan. 29 40

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SECOND ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA RESTAURANT WEEK Taste the best of Santa Barbara with exclusive menus curated by the city’s premier restaurants. Proceeds from restaurant registration help support the ProStart program, which educates and provides scholarships for the

next generation of young food service leaders.

The Santa Barbara community welcomed the inaugural Restaurant Week in February 2018, drawing both locals and out-of-towners to experience the area’s diverse culinary scene.

Following the same recipe for success, the second annual Santa Barbara Restaurant Week again features dozens of the city’s top restaurants, hotels and wine tasting rooms curating exclusive tasting options and prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus. Participating restaurants offer a two-course lunch and three-course dinner prix-fixe menu of select items offered at a reduced price, and wine tasting rooms offer special tasting experiences. | Various locations around Downtown Santa Barbara, SBRestaurantWeeks.com.

Feb. 24

SNARKY PUPPY Direct from Walt Disney Concert Hall, Snarky Puppy comes to Santa Barbara with an irresistible mix of funk, fever and finesse. The Brooklyn-based collective features a revolving cast of up to 25 musicians who work with some of the biggest names in music (Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg). Considered one of the hottest jazz/R&B outfits on the planet, Snarky Puppy is a three-time Grammy Award-winning group making “music for our brain and booty.” Don’t miss

PHOTOS: (L-R) COURTESY UCSB ARTS & LECTURES, COURTESY LOBERO

A FAR CRY Grammy-nominated string orchestra A Far Cry “brims with personality or, better, personalities, many and varied” (The New York Times). In the self-conducted orchestra, decisions are made collectively and leadership rotates among the players, a structure that has led to consistently thoughtful, innovative and unpredictable programming, and has engendered collaborations with artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Roomful of Teeth, the Silkroad Ensemble and Vijay Iyer. Now, the Boston-based ensemble makes its Santa Barbara debut with a program reflecting the group’s ambition and creativity. | 7 p.m., Hahn Hall, Music

The Christmas Revels: An Irish Celebration of the Winter Solstice, Dec. 22-23

DELICATE AS DECEMBER

this rollicking evening with the most explosively funky mega-band in the land. | 7 p.m., The Granada Theatre,

BY GEORGE YATCHISIN

1214 State St., 805/893-3535, artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu.

You don’t have to be too old to remember be-spectacled Santa in Carpinteria, his back to the sea, gazing continentally towards all the work he had to do.

Feb. 27 – Mar. 16

HARVEY In Mary Chase’s play, Harvey, the protagonist, Elwood P. Dowd, is middle-aged, mild-mannered and a relatively wealthy man. He is convinced that he is accompanied by a white rabbit named Harvey who is more than six feet tall and has become his best friend. Harvey is invisible to everyone except Elwood, and his insistence on Harvey’s existence creates a social nightmare for his widowed sister Veta and her daughter Myrtle Mae. As lighthearted chaos develops, Dowd goes missing and it increasingly seems that Harvey may be less imaginary than anyone thought. | The Theatre Group

Of course we would all fly highway-fast by, or just ignore him—take in sunsets, a warmer red than his cap, more like the oranges suddenly ripe ornaments on their trees.

So much of the world sighs into its boots and parkas as the calendar blows its bitter wind.

Yet we at worst have to slightly swerve our way home, around the tree suddenly planted

at Santa Barbara City College, 805/965-

mid-State Street, sort of for the season, sort of a narrow umbrella of pine and lights, sort of an assertion we take our trees seriously, especially given these have no leaves to lose.

5935, theatergroupsbcc.com.

Feb. 28

AN EVENING WITH ANNIE LEIBOVITZ Visionary photographer Annie Leibovitz is one of our most astute observers of contemporary culture, depicting the past half-century’s great personalities in images that are both iconic and intimate. Throughout her career, Leibovitz has created work that generates conversation, whether outrage, admiration, shock or some amalgam of all three. A Library of Congress Living Legend, Leibovitz’s lens both captures and shapes America’s modern landscape. | 7:30 p.m., The Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St., 805/963-4408, thearlingtontheatre.com.

Feb. 28- Mar. 2

WORLD OF PINOT NOIR The 2019 World of Pinot Noir includes two full days of pairing dinners prepared by renowned chefs, Pinot Noir parties, two Grand Tastings featuring more than 250 premier Pinot Noir wineries from around the globe, and expert-led wine seminars. | Ritz-Carlton Bacara, 8301 Hollister Ave., worldofpinotnoir.com.

Mar. 2

WOMEN’S LITERARY FESTIVAL In honor of Women’s History

Month, the Women’s Literary Festival hosts its 13th gathering of women writers by honoring the writing contributions of emerging and established women authors in the areas of literacy, diversity and social justice. Featured speakers include Poet Rachelle Cruz, the Literary Laureate for the Inland Empire; Author, Professor, Speaker, and Social Scientist Dr. Bella DePaulo (Singled Out); Novelist and Professor of English at Fresno State University Randa Jarrar; and Florencia Ramirez, author of Eat Less Water and a trained researcher at the University of Chicago’s School of Public Policy. | 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Hilton Garden

unique cinematic vision of Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman, contemporary ballet darling Justin Peck with a work set to a score by Philip Glass, and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s spellbinding depiction of a turbulent cloud formation. Presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures, these tour-de-force, wide-ranging programs display the inestimable skill of The Joffrey Ballet’s dancers, classically trained to the highest standards, and the company’s unique, inclusive perspective on dance. | 8 p.m., Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., 805/893-3535, ArtsAndLectures.

UCSB.edu.

Inn, 6878 Hollister Ave., Goleta, womensliteraryfestival.com.

Mar. 5-6

THE JOFFREY BALLET Among America’s premier ballet companies, Chicago-based Joffrey Ballet returns to Santa Barbara with two spellbinding nights of cutting-edge programs featuring one of George Balanchine’s earliest experimental works, two pieces by modern ballet master Nicolas Blanc, the

Mar. 15-17

74TH ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL ORCHID SHOW Recently named by the Los Angeles Times as one of the top five “must-see” flower shows in the world, the 74th Annual Santa Barbara International Orchid Show is one of the grandest celebrations of orchids in the country.

Orchid growers from around the globe gather and exhibit the pride of their world-class specimens, and the public

is invited to join in the melding of knowledge, beauty, and prestige. | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Earl Warren Showgrounds, 3400 Calle Real, SBOrchidShow.com.

Mar. 29-31

SHEN YUN WORLD TOUR 2019 Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends, and modern heroic tales, taking you on a journey through 5,000 years of authentic Chinese culture. Its stunning beauty, purity, and tremendous energy leave audiences greatly uplifted and deeply inspired. Kenn Wells, former lead dancer of the English National Ballet, says this is “absolutely the no.

1 show in the world, absolutely the best—no other company or of any style can match this.” | Fri., Mar. 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Mar. 30, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Mar. 31, 1 p.m. Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., granadasb.org.

ALL LOCATIONS ARE IN SANTA BARBARA UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. FOR COMPLETE EVENT LISTINGS, VISIT SBSEASONS.COM. WINTER 2019

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FIRST PERSON

Pictured with the 32-foot installation Lament, showcased at the opening of the new library wing at UCSB Library in January 2016, Artist Nancy Gifford says, “Lament is a final bow to the book as a reverential object.

I ponder what books represent; knowledge, and how knowledge expands by a form of accretion, one fact upon another, till it becomes a Body of Knowledge.”

Artist and Curator Extraordinaire

BY CHERYL CRABTREE

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED mixed media installation artist Nancy Gifford arrived in Santa Barbara in 2008 and immediately dove into the local contemporary art scene. Her art—everything from paintings and drawings to wall relief constructions and videos—has appeared at Sullivan Goss Gallery, Westmont College, the Museum of Contemporary Art, UC Santa Barbara and other local venues. She has also curated numerous exhibitions and special events at Lotusland, Arts Fund Santa Barbara, Art from Scrap and other venues. Looking back at her many accomplishments a decade after

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she moved here, it’s obvious that Gifford has made an indelible and lasting impact on our arts community.

Gifford didn’t begin her art career until she was approaching 30. She grew up on a farm in Ohio and attended Kent State, and was midway through her psychology studies when the infamous shootings took place in May 1970.

She left school and found work as a temporary receptionist at a company in Atlanta, where a Spanish photographer, a talent agent for the Ford modeling agency, “discovered” her.

Gifford spent nearly a decade modeling

in Europe, then moved back to the U.S. and began her art career in the early ’80s in Los Angeles, where her evocative political and environmental work catapulted her onto the world art stage. She won many emerging artist awards and her works have been shown in various museums in the U.S. and around the world. In the 1990s she and her British-born husband moved to London, and spent another decade shuttling between England, France and Florida.

Gifford began a new phase of life when she and her husband Michael moved to

PHOTO: JOANNE A. CALITRI

Nancy Gifford

Montecito. “I came here on a wave in 2008,” Gifford recalls. “Within a year of my arrival I connected with all these like-minded women, very much focused on contemporary art: Gwen Stauffer at Lotusland, Julie Joyce, the contemporary curator at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Judy Larsen had just arrived at Westmont, Elise Gonzalez at UCSB, and Sarah Cunningham at Atkinson Gallery. It was a beautiful opportunity,” says Gifford. “I decided to dive in and roll up my sleeves and get involved. It got me out of the studio.”

Though extensively involved with various projects outside the studio, Gifford continued to create new works in her “crazy art house” for local and international exhibitions. She describes her art as primarily narrative. “I use a lot of text in my work,” she says, adding that the narrative derives from her own history, literature, poetry and world cultures.

Soon after Gifford moved to Montecito she curated her first show for Art from Scrap.

Since then she has curated or co-curated numerous exhibitions. At the Arts Fund Santa Barbara, she started the Community Gallery Program and initiated the Funk Zone Art Walk. She serves on various boards and volunteers for many nonprofit programs.

She also curates all three major art exhibitions at Lotusland, working closely with chief executive officer Gwen Stauffer.

Regarding Gifford’s impact on the local arts community, Stauffer says, “There isn’t a single person in Santa Barbara’s art community who has not been touched, in some way or another, by Nancy.” She adds, “Artists often find inspiration in nature, and Nancy’s own artful expressions are rooted in the simple beauty of the grid pattern of crops growing around the home of her youth in rural Ohio.

Nancy instinctively recognized Lotusland as art, with living plants as the principal media arranged in exuberant and dynamic beauty.

Lotusland actively conserves endangered plant species. We wanted to generate more public awareness of what the earth stands to lose, and Nancy understood that. Through our collaborative efforts with Nancy as curator of the art exhibition and Lotusland as curator of the accompanying messages, we were able create a stimulating and powerful, sometimes fun and sometimes sobering experience, and link that to a compelling call for citizen action.”

In Gifford’s view, “The decade has really been a fortunate expansion and growth of contemporary art. It’s been very rewarding in that respect.”

LEGACIES

The Artist’s Expression SLINGSHOT ALPHA ART STUDIO AND GALLERY

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHUCK GRAHAM

artists with an opportunity to learn about and create in many different mediums.

The studio and gallery were inspired by the artists and their art as far back as the late 1980s, when the Alpha Adult Day Program had a small art studio. The staff members all were artists, and realized their participants were drawn in by creating their own work.

“Alpha had the vision for an art studio and gallery that provided a place to showcase the talent of artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities years ago,” says Dumm.

ON A RECENT VISIT TO THE SLINGSHOT

Alpha Art Studio and Gallery, I was instantly captivated. As soon as I stepped inside the studio, my eyes took in the diversity of artwork hanging on the walls and all the talented artists working diligently at their chosen craft throughout the inviting, brightly lit, airy studio.

All the art was unique, created by those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I wouldn’t have known that just by admiring their work. Any disabilities were set aside while each artist worked on his or her current creations.

The SlingShot Alpha Art Studio and Gallery opened in downtown Santa Barbara in April 2013. The commitment to develop an art studio and gallery in Santa Barbara for artists with special needs was inspired by the artists and their art.

“We wanted our artists to have the same opportunity to create and sell their work as artists without disabilities,” says Sue Dumm, creative director at SlingShot. “We believed in the quality of the work and their ability to be committed artists. We believed the community would support a gallery that exhibits unique contemporary art.”

Dumm was right. When I toured the studio, there appeared not to be a single artistic medium that wasn’t in various stages of creation. By offering supplies for painting, drawing, print making, photography, fiber arts, ceramics and assemblage, SlingShot provides

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“Our inspiration comes from the artists and their art. Art transcends the label of disability.”

“Our inspiration comes from the artists and their art. Art transcends the label of disability.

It serves as an ambassador for changing the way people understand and appreciate artists with developmental disabilities. Our artists are proud to be a part of the SlingShot Art Studio and Gallery. We are proud to represent their art and find opportunities for them.”

There are currently 43 artists working at SlingShot. Each participant creates around his or her own schedule. Dumm said there are artists who attend SlingShot five days a week, and that their commitment to their art practice is admirable.

The process for joining SlingShot starts with

a tour and a conversation about possible interests and mediums. It’s not a drop-in studio; Dumm says the studio wants individuals to understand SlingShot’s expectations for commitment as an artist. SlingShot focuses on building relationships with each artist, and each artist has a contract with the studio representing his or her art for sale.

“It helps us discover an artist’s interests and ways of creating,” she says. “Most of our artists end up making art in several different mediums and find inspiration from one another.”

SlingShot (220 W. Canon Perdido St., Suite A, Santa Barbara) is part of downtown Santa Barbara’s 1st Thursday Art Walk on the first Thursday of each month. SlingShot is also open to the public from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by appointment.

805/770-3878, slingshotart.org

At SlingShot Alpha Art Studio and Gallery, a wide range of artists are hard at work on a variety of different mediums on any given day.

Photo: Nell Campbell

The SBCC Promise Thanks to our community of generous supporters, the SBCC Promise provides all recent local high school graduates with access to an outstanding and affordable education at Santa Barbara City College.

All fees, books, and supplies are covered for two years.

Your gift makes it possible.

sbccpromise.org | (805) 730- 4416

LEGACIES

Santa Barbara International Film Festival Will Dazzle Once Again

Actresses Allison Janney and Margot Robbie and Moderator Scott Feinberg; and Actor Sam Rockwell at The 33rd Santa Barbara International Film Festival at Arlington Theater.

A JOYOUS CELEBRATION OF THE ART OF

the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is one of the leading film festivals in the U.S., offering its 90,000 attendees (comprised of an eclectic mix of locals and visitors from around the world) an 11-day experience jam-packed with 200+ films, tributes and panels.

Among the highlights of the 2019 festival, taking place Jan. 30 – Feb. 9, are the celebrity tributes at the historic Arlington Theater.

First up (at press time) is the American Riviera Award honoring Viggo Mortensen on the afternoon of Feb. 2. Mortensen will be recognized for his many attributes to the art of film over the years, and most recently, his work in Green Book.

“Viggo is one of the steadiest acting forces in cinema and one of its greatest chameleons,” says SBIFF Executive Director Roger Durling.

“As Tony Lip in Green Book, he delivers the capstone to his remarkable career. He encapsulates the American Riviera Award.

We greatly admire and love him.”

That same evening, Glenn Close is set to receive the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award. Close will be honored for her longstanding contributions to the film industry, most recently gracing the silver screen in The Wife. Leonard Maltin will return for his 28th year to moderate the evening.

“Glenn Close is one of the great actresses of CINEMA,

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our time. Versatility is her hallmark, and there is clearly nothing she can’t do. She became a star with her first feature film, The World According to Garp, and has gone on to play everyone from Cruella de Vil to aging silent-film star Norma Desmond in the stage musical of Sunset Blvd. I can’t wait to spend an evening with her onstage at the Arlington Theater,” states Maltin.

Melissa McCarthy will receive the prestigious Montecito Award, for her starring role in Can You Ever Forgive Me? Given to a person in the entertainment industry who has made a great contribution to film, the award will be presented to her on Feb. 3.

“Melissa McCarthy—always a compelling talent—triumphs as Lee Israel in Can You Ever Forgive Me?” says Durling. “She’s funny, dark, caustic and oh so vulnerable. SBIFF is so pleased to be able to award this performance and her career so far.”

Always a fun and lively presentation, the Virtuosos Award is an honor created to recognize a select group of talent whose noteworthy performances in film have elevated them into the national cinematic dialogue.

Yalitza Aparicio (Roma), Sam Elliott (A Star is Born), Elsie Fisher (Eighth Grade), Claire Foy (First Man), Richard E. Grant (Can You Ever Forgive Me?), Thomasin Harcourt McKenzie (Leave No Trace), John David Washington (BlacKkKlansman), and Steven Yeun (Burning)

will receive the award on Feb. 5.

“From talented teenagers starring in their first feature films to veteran actors shining in career-best performances, this year’s Virtuosos prove that you can have a breakout moment at any point in your career,” says Turner Classic Movies host Dave Karger, who will preside over the evening for the eighth consecutive year.

Michael B. Jordan is set to receive the Cinema Vanguard Award on Feb. 7 for his work in two of the year’s critically acclaimed, culturally significant and record-breaking box office hits, Black Panther and Creed II. “It’s thrilling to honor Michael B. Jordan this year for the emboldened way he’s shown us what it means to be a movie star for the 21st century—mixing sensitivity with swagger, choosing important material that remains full of integrity yet become world phenomenon, and forging a cinematic partnership with visionary director Ryan Coogler,” says Durling.

SBIFF educational offerings include a Film Studies Program for undergraduate students from around the U.S., and the 10-10-10 (Ten Writers – Ten Directors – Ten Films) Screenwriting and Filmmaking Mentorship and Competition. There are also numerous other educational opportunities for local students and community members. For more information and the complete schedule, visit sbiff.org.

PHOTOS: (L-R) REBECCA SAPP/GETTY IMAGES FOR SBIFF, MATT WINKELMEYER/GETTY IMAGES FOR SBIFF

BY LESLIE DINABERG

THE ART OF BEING TOGETHER 6 Creative Couples WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LEELA CYD

FROM NEWER RELATIONSHIPS to going on 35 years together, the art of making a life and making art together is complex.

Six local couples engaged in different disciplines share how they discuss ideas, collaborate, cohabitate and continue on their creative paths together. Some of the individuals are in a parallel field, but all of the pairs overlap and influence each other.

Rebekah Miles and Mark Churchill let us in on their ceramics world, while Toni and Darin Scott give a glimpse into installation art and feature films. Frederick Janka and John C. Connelly support artists and create conversations around art through running a

nonprofit art space and dealing art, respectively. Sally England’s medium is fiber woven into elaborate sculptural forms, while her husband Nick Stockton designs seasonal color stories for Patagonia.

Dave Potter is the winemaker behind Muni and Potek wines and his wife Stephanie Dotson is a printmaker and teacher at Santa Barbara City College, while Linda Saccoccio is an abstract painter and her husband Barry Winick makes the abstract tangible, shaping spaces with light and luxe materials as an architect.

The common thread to all of these relationships ticking and humming through project highs and lows: good food, humor and support.

“I’M GRATEFUL TO CELEBRATE 27 YEARS OF MARRIAGE AND FOR BEING AMONG THE FORTUNATE TO FIND A PARTNER TO WHOM I LOVE, RESPECT AND CHERISH.” —Toni Scott

TONI SCOTT & DARIN SCOTT THEIR WORK Inspired by her multicultural heritage, Toni works in everything from paintings to large-scale multi-media museum installations, lifelike sculptures cast in bronze, and carvings in marble, alabaster, soapstone and Douglas fir. Darin is a writer-director-producer of feature films and television.

THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF BEING TOGETHER: “When you are both creative, there is very little of what other people call stability. But we wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Darin.

Toni and Darin Scott (shown on this spread and opening page) enjoy life on Santa Barbara’s west side.

HOW DOES BEING WITH A FELLOW CREATIVE AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “We understand the creative journey, says Toni. “We give each other the space and support to pursue our creative interests while at the same time encouraging one another. We both understand the challenges of being artists and celebrate the independence to express ourselves.”

“We understand the hardships and turmoil of being a creative, which allows us to be very supportive of each other,” says Darin.

HOW DO YOU TALK SHOP? “Toni talks a lot about her work,” says Darin. “I tend to be more inner dialogue oriented, unless something really upsets me, then I’ll talk about it.”

HOW DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S WORK? “Though love and support. Allowing each of us to ‘be’ and to explore our creative selves,” says Toni.

WHERE DO YOU REFRESH AND REFUEL CREATIVELY IN SANTA BARBARA? “The beach is our favorite place to go!

Beautiful, serene and peaceful. We love to eat out, go to the movies and art events, or simply walk our dog King Tut on the wonderful trails here,” says Toni.

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PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY LAGORIO ARCHIVE (3); PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, J.P. GRAHAM; PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, W.C. BROOKS

ON THE BEST PART OF BEING TOGETHER: “BEING WITH SOMEONE I LOVE WHO SUPPORTS ME. THAT’S ALWAYS THE BEST THING.” —Darin Scott

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”WE GENERALLY SEE VERY CLEARLY EACH OTHER’S STRENGTHS AND POINT THEM OUT WHEN THE OTHER FEELS STUCK OR IN A DOWNWARD SPIRAL” —Linda Saccoccio

LINDA SACCOCCIO & BARRY WINICK THEIR WORK “My work is informed by daily life and something that I feel is behind all of it... My painting is both abstract and poetic, as my poetry can be abstract and colorful. Both are using language and translation to hone in on something new and real, something experiential,” says Linda.

“My design studio is in the corrugated Corten steel building in Santa Barbara, where I have the pleasure of collaborating with eight talented architects. Our work includes coastal residential properties and refined luxury retail buildings for Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Hermes,” says Barry. “We focus on the design of elegantly ordered spaces, with sublime proportions in which we utilize light and textural form to sculpt space. Our signature style is the use of fine materials that enhance the sensual and harmonious atmosphere of our architecture.”

Opposite and above, Linda Saccoccio and Barry Winick at home.

The paintings above the fireplace are from Linda’s “Synagogue Series,” with Synagogue Series #3 shown below.

HOW DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S WORK? “Perhaps the awareness of what we each focus on, what we care about in art and architecture, that passion seems to flavor and influence our perception/perspective. It’s more like background music than a direct collaboration,” says Linda.

“Barry’s office is a bit like a gallery of my work mixed with his architecture and assortment of inviting materials. Our awareness of each other’s work is like a hum, sometimes a thunder that we live with.”

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF BEING TOGETHER? “Our appreciation and value of culture is a high point, as well as our appreciation for fine food, vegetarian with a smattering of fish. We also have a good appetite for travel, new horizons ... Anytime we can enjoy culture and food this way together, seems to be a key to balancing our busy work ventures,” says Linda. “We also love to share these things with our two creative daughters.”

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FREDERICK JANKA & JOHN C. CONNELLY THEIR WORK Frederick is Executive Director of the Carolyn Glasoe Bailey Foundation, an almost three-yearold nonprofit organization, which supports the arts and sciences. After owning his own art gallery in Chelsea, New York City for 10 years, John is a curator and private art dealer who also helps to build and manage private art collections. “We both love working with and supporting artists,” says John.

HOW DOES BEING WITH A FELLOW CREATIVE AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “It makes it all the more dynamic, fun, and inspiring when we are able to share the same language from different viewpoints,” says Frederick.

“Having someone you trust to be a sounding board and who you know will give you an honest answer is a gift,” says John. “Inspiring and pushing each other is key. It really is a constant collaboration in many ways and on many levels.”

WHERE IN SANTA BARBARA TO YOU GO TO REFRESH AND REFUEL CREATIVELY? “We love our weekly Beach Club Thursdays with friends at Hendry’s Beach, and I continue to be inspired by the abundance of art in our lives, our art collection at home, and our artist and creative friends,” says Frederick.

“I enjoy gardening,” says John. “The California lifestyle allows me to relax and nurture in this way all year round. As a lifelong East Coaster the quality of life I have now in Santa Barbara (and Ojai) is profoundly life changing.”

HOW DO YOU TALK SHOP? “It’s a pretty constant stream of talk about art, artists, ideas and plans,” says John.

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “I’m an introvert by nature and Freddy’s an extrovert. He really enjoys talking to people,” says John.

“Sometimes it’s hard to get a word in edgewise.”

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Frederick Janka and John C. Connelly relax in their art-filled Santa Barbara home, with Duke (left photo).

HOW DO YOU TALK SHOP? “WE ARE ALWAYS TALKING SHOP, THERE ARE VERY FLUID TO NO BOUNDARIES BETWEEN WORK AND LIFE, WE LIVE IN THE ART WORLD 24/7.”

—Frederick Janka

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ON THE BEST PART OF BEING TOGETHER: “BEING WITH SOMEONE YOU’RE SUPER INTO AS A PERSON AND SHARING OUR LITTLE QUEEN DAUGHTER. MARC IS SO GENUINE, FUNNY AND INFINITELY LOVING TO OUR FAMILY.” —Rebekah Miles

MARC CHURCHILL & REBEKAH MILES THEIR WORK Rebekah makes hand painted and hand built one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. “I want them to feel like heirlooms but also contemporary. They are high fired

by Marc—my sweetheart!” Marc’s work is “porcelain and stoneware made on the wheel and influenced by traditional Japanese ceramics, Southwest Native American pottery and abstract expressionism.”

Rebekah Miles and Marc Churchill with their daughter Inez Marigold.

HOW DOES BEING WITH A FELLOW CREATIVE AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “We have long days apart, and yet there’s a lot of communication about our work both during the day and often when we finally see each other.

We try to turn off (the work conversation) and focus on each other and our daughter. It’s also validating to have feedback from someone you love that happens to also have a keen understanding and appreciation for what you’re doing creatively. Marc has a really good eye, which shows in the quality and standards he holds for his own work,” says Rebekah.

“For me, I’m just a fan,” says Marc. “Rebekah’s work is so strange and magical to me that I just enjoy getting to be around to watch her process unfold. It’s endlessly fascinating to see what she comes up with each day, and so there’s this natural intimacy for us in it that we share.

Also, neither of us are ‘tortured’ artists really. I don’t think either of us really ever gets blocked. We certainly don’t always succeed, but we both seem to have more inspiration than hours in the day. So to be with someone with equal enthusiasm about making things is a really warm feeling.”

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Sally England and Nick Stockton, in their Ojai home.

SALLY ENGLAND & NICK STOCKTON THEIR WORK Sally is a fiber artist making wall hangings and sculpture using mostly knotting (macramé) techniques.

Nick works as a Color Designer for Patagonia and also does pottery inspired by Korean and Japanese work, as well as expressing himself creatively in food.

HOW DOES BEING WITH A FELLOW CREATIVE AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “We are project people. If we aren’t working on our own individual creative projects we are working on projects together around the house, like building out our van, or the studio that we built that sits in our backyard,” says Sally.

WHERE IN SANTA BARBARA TO YOU GO TO REFRESH AND REFUEL CREATIVELY? “The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA Santa Barbara), the Saturday Fisherman’s Market and Warbler Records,” says Nick.

HOW DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S WORK? ”Having worked together on so many projects over the past 13 years allows us to have a very open and honest dialogue, despite not always agreeing. We feed off of each others creativity, and are always bouncing ideas off of each other and are always there to support one another’s creative endeavors in any way we can,” says Sally.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF BEING TOGETHER? “Having someone that shares your passions,” says Nick. “Being in a relationship where your partner supports your personal growth, and the happiness that comes from being able to laugh with, and at one another,” says Sally.

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“WE ARE VERY YIN AND YANG. I LIKE TO SAY THAT NICK IS THE GAS, AND I AM THE BRAKES. NICK IS AN EXTROVERT AND HIGH ENERGY, AND I AM MORE OF AN INTROVERT AND A HOMEBODY. WE COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER IN THIS WAY, BUT IT ALSO COMES WITH ITS CHALLENGES.” —Sally England W I N T E R 2 019

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Stephanie Dotson and Dave Potter enjoy a day outside with their children, Oscar and Sylvie.

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WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF BEING TOGETHER? “STEPH IS ONE OF THE MOST INTELLIGENT AND CREATIVE PEOPLE I’VE EVER MET. SHE TELLS JOKES THAT ARE ACTUALLY FUNNY, AS OPPOSED TO MY GROAN-Y FUNNY DAD JOKES— AND SHE LOOKS GREAT.” —Dave Potter

STEPHANIE DOTSON & DAVE POTTER THEIR WORK Stephanie is a printmaker who works to “combine the language of different materials to create a new patois, in a mish-mash of process colors and weavings and large textural collage.” She is also an instructor at Santa Barbara City College. Winemaker Dave Potter is the man behind Municipal Winemakers and Potek Winery.

HOW DOES BEING WITH A FELLOW CREATIVE AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIP? “We’re not the same creative so it works out great,” says Stephanie. “There’s a mutual respect and a healthy distance so there’s still the magic of witnessing the other’s process as an outsider.”

HOW DO YOU INFLUENCE EACH OTHER’S WORK? “I think that being with Steph has had a huge impact on what Municipal Winemakers is,” says Dave. “ If you think about how the winery presents itself, and interacts with people, it’s squarely based in a philosophy not dissimilar to printmaking.

We have screen printers do our design. The wines are made and sold in an unpretentious way. Winemaking is a process craft like printmaking. We both use presses!”

“We’re often each other’s sounding boards but I don’t think I’ve ever influenced the direction of a wine or Dave has changed my work,” says Stephanie. “I think we use each other to gauge how an audience outside of our field will see our work. We both can be pretty niche, Dave is probably a little more beholden to being accessible to an audience while I tend to be skeptical of things that are too pleasing.” 

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Bright Ideas for Beautiful Bathrooms

BY CHERYL CRABTREE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMY BARNARD

IN THE 1900s, MOST RESIDENTIAL bathrooms were on the small side—practical spaces where people spent as little time as possible. But nowadays many homeowners consider the bathroom a place of refuge, a sanctuary where they can retreat, relax and renew.

As numerous residents launch extensive rebuilding and remodeling projects, local Santa Barbara designers and builders point out a number of contemporary trends that can inspire and guide your project plans.

Bathroom footprints have grown, according to Eric Johnson, Allen Construction’s regional manager for Santa Barbara. He says that people are also aiming for “timeless,” fully accessible bathrooms. “Clients in their 40s and 50s are looking ahead,” Johnson explains.

“They want to stay in their home for years. Some people are putting in aesthetically pleasing grab bars.

The other thing that’s really popular is the zero-threshold [curbless] shower, which is accessible for all ages. It has very clean lines, and when you’re older you can go in with a walker or a wheelchair.” Some of these showers have a bench, and many include handheld

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showerheads. Johnson says most faucets they install are lever-handled rather than knobs, which can be difficult to turn as people age. But Johnson also mentions that people are splurging on things like beautiful soaking tubs for their younger years. “It seems like everyone has a freestanding bathtub these days.”

When asked about client trends, Kirsten Kemp Becker, co-owner of Becker Studios, echoes the wishes for timeless bathrooms and for “luxurious spacious layouts with an eco-conscious execution of materials, including efficient plumbing and lighting systems. ”She says many clients are choosing natural stone slabs for shower benches, surrounds and countertops rather than tile—which they use more sparingly for artistic enhancement.

An important element to consider when designing a bathroom is lighting. “Good lighting is key,” says Becker. “The lighting doesn’t have to be seen as a feature, however the sink areas must be well lit… and we generally trend toward feature sconces or a special ceiling fixture.” Abundant natural light

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY LAGORIO ARCHIVE (3); PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, J.P. GRAHAM; PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, W.C. BROOKS

Tammy Hughes, of Emerald Eye Designs, worked with Becker Studios on this Spanish Colonial style guest bathroom with custom tile designs and vintage fixtures and furniture.

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COLOR PALETTES TYPICALLY FEATURE LIGHT OR EARTH-TONED COLORS JUXTAPOSED WITH COMPLIMENTARY TEXTURES, BUT SOMETIMES FOCUS ON A BOLD COLOR STATEMENT INSTEAD.

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L-R: This master bathroom takes advantage of views of a park-like backyard setting, cozy furniture and a distinctive vintage freestanding bathtub, designed by Tammy Hughes (Emerald Eye Designs) with Becker Studios. Contractor Sean Stevens worked with Architect Dustin Stephens of Mobile Office Architects to create this streamlined contemporary bathroom featuring fire resistant materials and an accessible sink. This bathroom from Hotel Raphael in Paris is an excellent example of the beauty of abundant natural light.

also helps. She says that if possible, her firm creates a connection to the outdoors, either visually through a large picture window or a gateway access to a private garden. “The bathroom is a place we begin and end each day, therefore a view of the ocean, mountains, or beautiful tranquil setting is paramount to setting up this special space—especially the master.”

As far as materials go, people tend to choose stainless steel, copper and even gold-toned fixtures. Color palettes typically feature light or earth-toned colors juxtaposed with complimentary textures (think wavy tiles and backlit mirrors edged with frosted glass), but sometimes focus on a bold color statement instead.

Other trends include technological conveniences—for example, charging receptacles for phones, razors and toothbrushes—and “smart home” gadgets that do things like fill the tub on command. Also on the rise are “extras” like team showers, towel warmer racks and multiple built-in niches. Some people are choosing quartz countertops instead of granite or marble, as quartz is equally durable at a more affordable price.

In general, contemporary Santa Barbara-area bathrooms include ample use of glass, freestanding sinks, clean lines and invisible drains. The result: an open, spacious, elegant haven that homeowners can enjoy for decades to come. 

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Many people view their bathroom as a place of refuge—a sanctuary where they can retreat, relax and renew—and luxuriate in a beautiful freestanding bathtub, like those featured in these two rooms designed by Penny Bianchi of McCormick Interiors.

“THE BATHROOM IS A PLACE WE BEGIN AND END EACH DAY, THEREFORE A VIEW OF THE OCEAN, MOUNTAINS, OR BEAUTIFUL TRANQUIL SETTING IS PARAMOUNT TO SETTING UP THIS SPECIAL SPACE— ESPECIALLY THE MASTER.” W I N T E R 2 019

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WINTER GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING WRITTEN AND STYLED BY JUDY FOREMAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEHOSH

1.

3.

MAKE YOUR WINTER SHOPPING mean more than just a click on an impersonal purchase on your computer, and a tactile experience as well. Take the time to find special and meaningful gifts for friends and family at the local boutiques and shops. Santa Barbara’s weather and topography make it easy to blur the lines between residential and retail spaces, where natural light, garden courtyards, indoors and outdoor spaces make many shops seem more like a place to go home to rather than a store. The easy

integration of yummy cashmere blankets, pillows, fancy packaged food and beauty products, spirits, cookbooks, art, pet accessories, cozy jammies and objects of design can activate your imagination and make shopping in person with your neighborhood merchants a feel-good experience. Shopkeepers are eager to tell you the story behind an item and the artisan who created it, which gives it a more personal touch and meaning, and supporting local business is the sweet spot and adds to the rich fabric of our community.

2.

1. Lacquer child’s airplane from Nurture Cottage (nuturecottagemontecito.com). 2. Children’s collage of treats, including a mini Popsicle backpack, ecofriendly nesting lunch boxes, party nail polishes, bath bomb, confetti crayons, In the Sea plant set, cozy kitty purse, sloths puzzle and Sea Star Sparkle Sunscreen, all from Nurture Cottage (nurturecottagemontecito.com). We’re All Works of Art by Mark Sperring (gibbs-smith.com). 3. Kid Made Modern arts and crafts box library from Nurture Cottage (nuturecottagemontecito.com).

DECEMBER DELIGHTS

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

4. Soft stuffed puppy and embroidered dog polo collar from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com); dog socks from The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Gift Shop (sbbg.org/visit/garden-shop); Peanut Butter Dogs by Greg Murray (gibbs-smith.com) and Naughty or Nice Dog Bone and Bulldog ornament (frontgate.com). 5. Michael Aram Pomegranate Menorah from Coast 2 Coast (c2ccollection.com).

6. Juliska Winter Frolic Ruby Tree Platter from Coast 2 Coast (c2ccollection.com).

7. Malie Organics’ Botany Beauty Collection (malie.com). 8. LOVE by Matt de la Peña and Loren Long, puzzle, racing car and goggles for amateur speedsters, Space dab t-shirt and grey AG boy’s jeans, all from Nurture Cottage (nuturecottagemontecito.com). 9. Juliska Reindeer Games ceramic red mug from Coast 2 Coast (c2ccollection.com). 10. PJ Salvage cozy boot slipper and PJ Salvage Rise and Shine cozy flannel PJs from Glamour House (glamourhouselingerie.com). 11. Michael Aram Olive Branch Gold Wood Serving Bowl and Olive Branch Gold Wood Serving Set from Coast 2 Coast (c2ccollection.com).

12. Smythe sharp shoulder blazer, Mother high-waisted skinny black jean, gold Raquel Allegra silk top, Vanessa Bruno handbag, all from Diani (dianiboutique.com).

12.

11.

9.

10.

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13.

JOYOUS JANUARY 14.

15.

18.

17.

13. Hanging leather Dopp Kit from Whiskey & Leather (whiskeyleather.com), with products from Dionis Goat Milk Skincare (dionisgmskincare.com), Wren Natural (wrennatural.com) and Doctor Lip Bang (lipbang.com). 14. Yoga Joes from Imagine (imagineartfulthings.com).

15. Great Women Spirits from the Family Coppola (thefamilycoppola.com).

16. Struck by Douglas Segal (prospectparkbooks.com). 17. Paul Smith striped scarf, owl socks and striped socks; Charcoal Soap and Lotion, from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com). Chocolate leather flask from Whiskey & Leather (whiskeyleather.com). Vintage leather baseball and golf set from Imagine (imagineartfulthings.com). Booze & Vinyl by Andre Darlington and Tenaya Darlington (runningpress.com).

18. Replica of early 20th century football from Imagine (imagineartfulthings.com).

16.

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22.

20.

19.

21.

19. London and New York Skylines chess set from Imagine (imagineartfulthings.com).

20. The Connoisseur’s Guide to Worldwide Spirits

by Richard Carleton Hacker (skyhorsepublishing.com).

21. Tempo hybrid electric bike (tempobicycles.com).

22. Aiden Fleecy Trucker Jacket from Whiskey & Leather (whiskeyleather.com): Il Bisonte Fleece and Leather bag from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com); sage suede Isabel Marant Dacken boot and Mother Dutchie cropped jean from Diani (dianiboutique.com).

23 Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee

(davessweettooth.com).

24. First We Surf Then

23.

We Eat by Jim Kempton (prospectparkbooks.com).

25. Rustic leather boots from Plum Goods (plumgoodsstore.com).

25.

24.

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28.

FEBRUARY FUN 26.

27.

29.

26. Natori Feathers Lace Bra from Glamour

31.

32.

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30.

House (glamourhouselingerie.com); long velvet berry scarf, garnet and gold earrings, red beaded necklace, small silk pouch and wine velvet chemise from Wendy Foster (wendyfoster.com).

27. Delicious Dessert Cocktails by Barbara Scott-Goodman (weldonowen.com). 28. NK Mode silk leopard print chemise and robe, and Jacques Levine classic suede slipper with gold trim, from Glamour House (glamourhouselingerie.com).

29. Il Bisonte brown leather cross body bag from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com).

30. Regalia Aqua (Vietri) Champagne Flute and Orange Regalia Champagne Glass from Coast 2 Coast (c2ccollection.com). 31. Rosa D’oro candleholder from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com). 32. Alexandre Birman leopard kitten heel boots from Diani (dianiboutique.com).

35.

33.

34.

36.

40.

39.

37.

38.

33. Jungle King Pillow by Christian Lacroix from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com).

34. “Good” & “Bad” pillow by Artist Christian Croix from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com).

35. Beautiful flowering tea by Flower Pot Tea Company (flowerpottea.com). 36. Treats from The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Gift Shop: Aromatherapy body mist, essential oil, moisturizing body mousse, mug, wildflower honey, small garden zip pouch and voile red print scarf (sbbg.org/visit/garden-shop). 37. Copperplate garden tools from The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Gift Shop (sbbg.org/visit/garden-shop). 38. Garden print tool stool, wood handled stainless steel garden tools from The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Gift Shop (sbbg.org/visit/ garden-shop). Stetson Mesh Safari Hat (stetson.com).

39. Veggie Panino by Alessandro Frassica (arnoldsche.com).

40. Around the Table - Recipes & Stories From The Lark in Santa Barbara from Upstairs at Pierre Lafond (upstairsatpierrelafond.com).

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RETRO-CHIC REVIVAL AT THE SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS

PHOTO:

BY LESLIE DINABERG

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PHOTOS: COURTESY SKYVIEW

Above, a breathtaking view of Pebble Beach Golf Links, 6-8. Right, a Fairway One Cottage Room, and below right, The Spa at Pebble Beach.

ON THE HILLTOP OVERLOOKING the quaint western town of Los Alamos sits a midcentury modern gem of a new hotel—the Skyview Los Alamos. This boutique, 33-room property—including two spacious suites and 16 deluxe rooms with private decks with outdoor showers and fire pits—opened last spring, somehow managing to maintain the historic 1950’s motel vibe, while infusing it with equal helpings of modern conveniences and hipster coolness.

“We were inspired by the western roots of Los Alamos, the midcentury architecture of the motel, and our love of travel,” explains Kimberly Walker, managing partner and co-owner of Skyview Los Alamos.

“Skyview was built in 1959 and changed hands quite a few times over the years,” says Walker. “At one point, locals used to be able to swim in the pool for 25 cents! We’ve heard

many people say the Beatles stayed in room 33 at some point.”

Like many others (myself included), Walker had driven past the motel for years and wondered what it was. “We always saw the motel sign going, ‘oh, what is that on the hill?’

But we fell in love with Los Alamos, the food, the wine and the people. When the motel went up for sale, we moved on it quickly. We purchased the property in 2016 and spent two years renovating the motel, sprucing up the grounds, updating the design and restoring its midcentury architecture. We also turned the former asphalt car park into communal native gardens with fire pits to create space for guests to relax and gather,” she explains.

The attention to detail is incredible. Guests are greeted with a cup of locally sourced Dart Coffee or a glass of local wine (and soon the 2.5-acre onsite Skyview Vineyards will yield

Left, the Skyview Courtyard was a former asphalt car park before being remodeled into a gathering spot featuring fire pits and native gardens. Above, the Midcentury golden starbust door welcomes visitors to Norman, the excellent onsite restaurant.

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their own Pinot Noir, overseen by winemaker Mikey Guiliani of Scar of the Sea Wines).

Each room is its own bespoke design, with thoughtfully sourced and unique décor, including flat panel televisions, down duvets, leather club chairs and marble-clad bathrooms with hand-painted tiles and farm sinks, as well as luxury amenities such as locally made Fable Soap products in the bathroom and Abba-Zabba candy, Good Zebra munchies and Casamigos Tequila in the mini-bar.

“We completely designed the property ourselves,” says Walker. “My partner, Mike Kyle, oversaw the architectural design and I oversaw the interior design. This is our second project together as a design team—the first was Granada Hotel & Bistro in San Luis Obispo. As with the property in SLO, we let the building’s location and heritage guide the process.

We’re proud and excited to have brought it back to its 1950’s glory.”

A large part of that glory is the restoration of the original 1950’s era pool, with the iconic neon “Motel” sign casting its glow over water that changes color from green to silver to purple and two shades of blue, with the help of an app. The ownership group, known as Nomada Hotel Group, took care to retain many of the motel’s original elements, like the quirky cactus columns in the porte-cochere, and the actual room keys instead of key cards. A fleet of Linus bikes offers a nostalgic way to explore the downtown area of Los Alamos—which is rapidly becoming a haven for foodies—as well as the surrounding wineries and vineyards.

Forest green doors with a midcentury golden starburst beckon guests to pay a visit to Norman—the excellent full-service bar and restaurant named with a wink to Psycho’s Norman Bates. Norman is well worth the drive on its own, and serves local wines, herb-infused cocktails and farm-fresh fare (think shareable plates and lots of salads, fish and housesmoked meats) both poolside and in the retro-chic reinvented dining room.

The dog-friendly property is a great spot for a romantic getaway but would also be a fun place to gather with a group of friends for a special occasion or just a weekend hangout.  SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS, 9150 US-101, LOS ALAMOS, 805/344-0104, SKYVIEWLOSALAMOS.COM.

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PHOTOS: COURTESY SKYVIEW

This page, each room’s carefully crafted decor reflects both the location’s western heritage and modern luxury elements.

Opposite, a restored vision of the iconic 1950s era pool and neon sign.

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY LAGORIO ARCHIVE (3); PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, J.P. GRAHAM; PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY, W.C. BROOKS

A LARGE PART OF THE RETRO GLORY IS THE RESTORATION OF THE ORIGINAL 1950’S ERA POOL, WITH THE ICONIC NEON “MOTEL” SIGN CASTING ITS GLOW OVER WATER THAT CHANGES COLOR FROM GREEN TO SILVER TO PURPLE AND TWO SHADES OF BLUE, WITH THE HELP OF AN APP.

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lthough you won’t find any vineyards in this area, these unique and eclectic wineries and tasting rooms are a great way to begin your wine-tasting journey through the area on foot, as an introduction to local wines. Many of the urban wineries have northern Santa Barbara County vineyards that are also open to visitors.

1 Area 5.1 137 Anacapa St. 2 Armada Wine & Beer Merchant 1129-A State St.

6 The Bodega Standing Sun 15 E. De La Guerra St.

3 Au Bon Climat 813 Anacapa St.

8 Cebada Vineyard & Winery 8 E. De La Guerra St. 9 Corks & Crowns 32 Anacapa St. 10 Corktree Cellars Wine & Bar 910 Linden Ave., Carpinteria

4 August Ridge Vineyards 5 E. Figueroa St 5 AVA Santa Barbara/The Valley Project 116 E. Yanonali St.

76 S B S E A S O N S . C O M

7 Carr Winery 414 N. Salsipuedes St.

11 Deep Sea Wine Tasting 217 Stearns Wharf 12 DV8 Cellars 28 Anacapa St. 13 FFWS Tasting Room at Ritz Carlton Bacara Resort 8301 Hollister Ave., Goleta 14 Frequency Wines 831 Santa Barbara St. 15 Fox Wine Co. and Blair Fox Cellars 120 Santa Barbara St. 16 Grassini Family Vineyards 24 El Paseo 17 Happy Canyon Vineyard 30 El Paseo

10

18 Jaffurs Wine Cellars 819 E. Montecito St 19 Jamie Slone Wines 23 E. De La Guerra St. 20 Kunin Wines Tasting Room 28 Anacapa St. 21 LaFond Winery 111 E. Yanonali St. 22 Laplace Wine Bar & Shop 205 Santa Barbara St. 23 Lumen Wines/The Wine Shepard 30 E. Ortega St. 24 Margerum Tasting Room 813 Anacapa St. 25 Melville Winery Tasting Room 120 State St., Suite C 26 Municipal Winemakers 22 Anacapa St. 27 MWC32 813 Anacapa St. 28 Oreana Winery 205 Anacapa St. 29 Pali Wine Company 116 E. Yanonali St. 30 Paradise Springs Winery 210 State St. 31 Potek Winery 406 E. Haley St. 32 Riverbench Santa Barbara Tasting Room 137 Anacapa St. 33 Sanford Winery and Vineyards 1114 State St. 34 Sanguis Wines 8 Ashley Ave. 35 Santa Barbara Winery 202 Anacapa St. 36 Santa Barbara Wine Collective 131 Anacapa St. 37 Santa Barbara Wine Therapy 732 State St. 38 Satellite Santa Barbara 1117 State St. 39 Silver Wines 724 Reddick St. 40 Skyenna Wine Lounge 12 Helena Ave. 41 Summerland Winery 2330 Lillie Ave., Summerland 42 Villa Wine Bar and Kitchen 618 Anacapa St. 43 Vogelzang Vineyard 1129 State St. 44 Whitcraft Winery 36-A S. Calle Cesar Chavez

TM

Experience Laid-Back Luxury

Voted Best Urban Tasting Room Runner-Up in the Santa Barbara Independent 2018 Readers’ Poll

2018

Best of

Santa Barbara

®

Runner-Up

90+ Rated, Limited Production, Handcrafted Wines Featuring: Red Blends, Pinot Noir, Rosé, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Albarino, Grenache Blanc, and more!

In the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara’s Historic Presidio Neighborhood

23 E. De La Guerra Street | 805.560.6555 jamieslonewines.com

10 WONDERFUL WINTER WINE ADVENTURES

There is only one thing better than touring a Santa Barbara County vineyard–touring the vineyard while tasting the wine from the site that it is grown.

Santa Barbara Vintners’ new Director of Operations, Phil Carpenter, is as passionate about wine as they come. The consummate cheerleader for Santa Barbara County wine paints a pretty romantic picture about a voyage into a vineyard.

“When tasting wine that comes from the vines you are standing in, you can experience the transparency of the wine through so many lenses,” says Carpenter. “Your eyes not only see the hue of the wine, but the hue of the soil the rootstocks elevate from. You smell not only the nose of that wine, but also what is floating around and above the canopy. You can taste the soil you’re kicking beneath your feet, and how it influences the nuance of the palate.

There is no way you don’t go through that experience without making an emotional

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connection that tends to make you a loyal advocate for that label, that land and people involved with it.”

There’s never been a better time to explore Santa Barbara wine country. More wineries than ever are offering private tours or unique wine experiences, for a price; ranging from $25-90/person.

Spear Winery will whisk you away on a journey through the 34-acre organic vineyard while you savor estate pinot noir and chardonnay. The top of the ranch peaks at more than 900 feet above sea level with magnificent 360-degree views of the entire Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Spear’s new winery and tasting room were created from the property’s historic original dairy barn. “We have a place to bring people to have a real vineyard tasting experience,” says owner Ofer Shepher. Visits are by appointment.

Pence Vineyards offers several outdoor wine experiences, by appointment.

Sommeliers lead guests through a personal

seated tasting at the estate’s octagon-shaped pond house or sip wine paired with cheese and charcuterie on the dock next to the vineyard-surrounded pond.

Be pampered at Brave & Maiden.

You won’t find a bar at the impressive new winery and tasting room in Santa Ynez, open by appointment. Three tiers of guided experiences feature a seated tasting in luxurious living or dining room areas.

“It is really important to us that our guests have our full attention when they are experiencing our wines, unlike at a crowded bar where you are sort of competing for the host’s attention,” says Brave & Maiden’s Managing Director Jason Djang.

Tour the winery and vineyard and share a cheese board or a picnic lunch in the barrel room or overlooking the vineyard. “It serves to connect the guests to the land and to the winemaking process,” says Djang. “Come here and have a little retreat with us for a couple hours.”

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT, COURTESY PENCE VINEYARDS; COURTESY BRAVE & MAIDEN; BLAKENEY SANFORD, COURTESY SPEAR WINERY; CIRO COELHO, COURTESY ALMA ROSA; COURTESY FESS PARKER WINERY; COURTESY SANFORD WINERY

BY WENDY THIES SELL

An amazing variety of wine experiences are available at Santa Barbara County vineyards, including, clockwise from opposite left: Pence Vineyards, Brave & Maiden, Spear Winery, Alma Rosa, Fess Parker Winery and Sanford Winery, among others.

Alma Rosa Winery recently began welcoming guests to its rural Buellton estate for private wine tastings. Choose from an outdoor tasting under an 80-year old wisteria arbor or inside the estate’s historic Ranch House. The beautifully restored 100-year old redwood home is located at El Jabali Vineyard, planted 35 years ago by Alma Rosa’s founder Richard Sanford.

“These are introspective wines without being over the top,” says Sanford. “There’s a lyrical quality to our wines.”

By booking the Biodynamics Tour at Martian Ranch, you’ll explore the biodynamically-farmed vineyard and vegetable garden, meet the estate’s Irish Dexter cows and Boer goats, and soak up the sun at the private pond while you taste the estate’s Rhone variety wines and have lunch.

Want to feel the wind in your hair? Take the All-Terrain Vineyard Tour at Sanford Winery.

A wine educator will chauffeur you in a Polaris ATV through the picturesque estate. Sample pinot noir and chardonnay in the vineyards in which they are grown and marvel at the views of the Sta. Rita Hills.

Presqu’ile Winery’s Coastline Tour, offered by reservation, takes guests beyond the modern tasting room through the wine cave and upstairs to the state-of-the-art winery. Seasonal cuisine prepared by Presqu’ile’s chef will be enjoyed throughout the tour. This behind-the-scenes excursion concludes in Presqu’ile’s private dining room with a three-vintage pinot noir vertical tasting.

An exclusive experience awaits in the new Addendum tasting room at Fess Parker Winery. Taste the first vintage of Addendum wines; cabernet sauvignon crafted solely from Napa Valley vineyards, during a seated, fully guided wine experience led by a wine educator.

Happy Canyon Vineyard offers horse drawn wagon rides through the vineyard. This unique experience also includes a tasting of six wines paired with cheese and charcuterie.

For the nimble wine enthusiast there is CORE Winery’s Bike & Bottle tour. Winemaker and former semi-pro cyclist Dave Corey leads small groups on bicycle rides. Start at his Lompoc winery, cycle out to Surf Beach and back before tasting from the wine barrels. Or Corey allows you to customize your own wine tasting bicycle tour anywhere in the county. 

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TASTING AT THE VINEYARD Santa Barbara County grows exceptional grapes, and now, after decades of experimentation with an incredible diversity of microclimates and soil types, growers and winemakers know a lot about what to plant and where those vines thrive best. A host of talented vintners transform those grapes into world-class wines. The best way to explore these authentic wine-producing and wine grape growing regions is by visiting the vineyards and speaking directly to the people who grow and produce these exceptional vintages.

To make your experience as complete and enjoyable as possible, of the 200+ wineries where you can taste in Santa Barbara County, we recommend the following 40 based on their significance historically, visually and their quality of wine and hospitality.

BUELLTON 1 Brick Barn Wine Estate 795 W. Hwy 246 805/686-1208

PHOTO: ROB BROWN, COURTESY SANTA BARBARA VINTNERS

2 Ken Brown Wines 157 W. Hwy. 246 805/688-9400 3 Lafond Winery and Vineyards 6855 Santa Rosa Rd. 805/688-7921 4 Mosby Winery 9496 Santa Rosa Rd. 805/688-2415 5 Pence Vineyards & Winery 1909 W. Hwy. 246 805/735-7000 appointment only

LOMPOC 6 Babcock Winery & Vineyards 5175 Hwy. 246 805/736-1455

7 Dierberg & Star Lane Vineyards 1280 Drum Canyon Rd.805/697-1466 8 Foley Estates Vineyard & Winery 6121 E. Hwy. 246 805/737-6222 9 Hilliard Bruce Vineyard 2075 Vineyard View Ln. 805/736-5366 appointment only 10 Melville Vineyards & Winery 5185 E. Hwy. 246 805/770-7952 11 Sanford Winery & Vineyards 5010 Santa Rosa Rd. 805/770-7873 12 Spear Vineyards & Winery 6700 E. Hwy. 246 805/737-1829 appointment only

LOS OLIVOS 13 Andrew Murray Vineyards 5249 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/686-9604 14 Beckmen Vineyards 2670 Ontiveros Rd. 805/688-8664 15 Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard 6200 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/688-1545 16 Firestone Vineyard 5017 Zaca Station Rd. 805/688-3940 17 Koehler Winery 5360 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/693-8384 Zaca Mesa Winery 6905 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/688-9339

18

SANTA MARIA 19 Cambria Estate Vineyards & Winery 5475 Chardonnay Ln. 805/938-7318

20 Cottonwood

Canyon Winery 3940 Dominion Rd. 805/937-8463 21 Foxen Vineyard & Winery 7200 & 7600 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/937-4251 22 Kenneth Volk Vineyards 5230 Tepusquet Rd. 805/938-7896 23 Presquâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ile Vineyard & Winery 5391 Presquile Dr. 805/937-8110

24

Rancho Sisquoc Winery 6600 Foxen Canyon Rd.805/934-4332

25 Riverbench

Vineyard & Winery 6020 Foxen Canyon Rd. 805/937-8340

26

Tres Hermanas Vineyard & Winery 9660 Foxen Canyon Rd.805/937-8451

SANTA YNEZ 27 Brander Vineyard 2401 N. Refugio Rd. 805/688-2455 28 Brave & Maiden Wine Estate 649 N Refugio Rd. 805/693-2989 29 Bridlewood Estate Winery 3555 Roblar Ave. 805/688-9000 30 Gainey Vineyard 3950 E. Hwy. 246 805/688-0558 31 Kalyra Winery 343 N.Refugio Rd. 805/693-8864 32 Roblar Winery & Vineyards 3010 Roblar Ave. 805/686-2603 33 Sunstone Vineyards & Winery 125 N. Refugio Rd. 805/688-9463

34 Vincent Vineyards 2370 N. Refugio Rd. 805/691-4200

SOLVANG 35 Blackjack Ranch Vineyards & Winery 2205 Alamo Pintado Rd. 805/686-4492 36 Buttonwood Farm Winery 1500 Alamo Pintado Rd. 805/688-3032 37 Lincourt Vineyards 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd.805/688-8554 38 Rideau Vineyards 1562 Alamo Pintado Rd. 805/688-0717 39 Rusak Vineyards 1819 Ballard Canyon Rd. 805/688-1278 40 Shoestring Winery 800 E. Hwy. 246 800/693-8612 W I N T E R 2 019

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NEXT LEVEL HOTEL DINING

BY NANCY RANSOHOFF

TRIED AND TRUE WITH A VIEW A trifecta of tried-and-true faves that have undergone renovations, transformations or spiff-ups are now better than ever. And

BY NANCY RANSOHOFF they have views, views, views. Bella Vista Restaurant at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara gets high marks for its stunning oceanfront setting across from Butterfly Beach in Montecito (sunset, anyone?), roomy terrace and always on-point contemporary Italian cuisine. Belmond El Encanto is perched atop a seven-acre hilltop property with sweeping city and ocean views.

California coastal cuisine focuses on local ingredients including fresh herbs from the chef’s garden and cheese made from the milk of Ellie, the resort’s cow. Angel Oak at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara gives new meaning to the traditional steakhouse.

You’ll drink well, too, from a 12,000-bottle wine cellar, while you gaze at the ocean from both the dining room and patio.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK The Monarch, the new restaurant and bar in the Montecito Inn, has hit the ground running with its wood-burning hearth cooking and rustic-elegant feel. At the helm are husband and wife chef-owners Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee. Dishes are made from über-local ingredients and served family style. Don’t miss the short rib, slathered with red wine and mustard and slow roasted fireside. Poised to open soon at the Inn is sister restaurant Silver Bough, a high-end chef’s tasting menu concept.

Blackbird, the signature restaurant in the new Spanish Colonial Revival-style Hotel Californian, delivers a touch of old Hollywood glamor just a block from the beach. Sip an inventive cocktail in the sleek dining room and nibble creative Mediterranean-influenced dishes from the kitchen of Chef Alex Lamotte. The menu changes often, but you might find grilled octopus with chorizo, whole roasted branzino or rib-eye steak with bone marrow.

Goat Tree is the Hotel Californian’s casual, all-day dining café with al fresco seating and fresh fare with a hint of Mediterranean flavor. This place works in a lot of ways. Grab a coffee, cold-pressed juice, pastry or full breakfast; load up your picnic basket for wine tasting or the beach; or swoop in for lunch or dinner. Think charcuterie plates, flatbreads, inventive salads, sandwiches and burgers, pastas and fried chicken.

Outpost

BY THE SEA At Convivo in the Santa Barbara Inn, you can settle in to the contemporary dining room or out on the heated patio with views of East Beach. Chef and co-owner Peter McNee keeps it fresh with a seasonal menu of flatbreads and pizzas from the wood-fired oven, house-made pastas, fresh crudo and salads, and roasted seafood and meats.

Spit-roasted chicken with harissa and the zesty Moroccan herb sauce chermoula is a sleeper hit.

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Goat Tree

Just down Cabrillo Boulevard is Rodney’s Grill in the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort (formerly the Fess Parker DoubleTree), where California cuisine reigns supreme. Dive into dishes like butternut squash risotto with toasted pine nuts and crispy leeks, and whole fried snapper with parsnip puree. There’s a great selection of California wines, including some from Fess Parker Winery, natch. You can enjoy more sips at the tasting room in the lobby.

SISTER, SISTER At Finch & Fork in the Kimpton Canary Santa Barbara, Executive Chef Peter Cham kicks American dishes up a notch or two while showcasing bounty from our local farmers and fishermen. The dark-woodpaneled downtown setting just oozes comfort. Sip a craft cocktail or glass of Santa Barbara County wine and dig into the likes of melt-in-your-mouth short rib, rainbow trout with toasted hazelnut brown butter, and

PHOTOS: CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT, JAKOB N. LAYMAN, TENLEY FOHL PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY BLACKBIRD, COURTESY GOAT TREE, COURTESY OUTPOST

IT USED TO BE THAT HOTEL DINING was short on creativity and long on convenience and predictability. Not anymore.

Say goodbye to ho-hum hotel dining and hello to inventive cuisine in elevated eateries with vibes from oceanfront elegance to rustic Valley chic. Whether you crave a steak by the ocean or ceviche near the vineyards you’ll find it in this delicious buffet of options… and you just might want to check in.

macaroni and cheese studded with bacon.

Located in a sister property, the surfinspired Kimpton Goodland in Goleta, Outpost epitomizes California cool. Friend groups and date-nighters flock to the poolside outdoor tables or colorful dining room. Executive Chef Damien Giliberti turns out such flavor-packed plates as pork belly bao buns, seared salmon atop romanesco puree, caramelized sweet potato with crispy chickpeas, and bright, fresh tuna crudo.

Insider tip: try the seasonal cocktails and weekly ramen nights.

VARIETY IN THE VALLEY The Bear and Star, located at the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos, sources much of its beef, poultry and produce from the Parker family’s nearby 714-acre ranch.

The décor combines Western-style elegance with comfort. Chef and partner John Cox calls the food “refined ranch cuisine.” We call it delicious. Though the menu is seasonal, look for mainstays Wagyu filet mignon, deviled ranch eggs and pan-seared sea bass. Sip from a list of Fess Parker Winery, Santa Barbara County and international wines.

You’ll feel transported to Europe at First Blackbird

The Monarch

& Oak in Solvang’s Mirabelle Inn, as you sink into velvety and leather banquettes in the chic dining room. The dining concept is a chef’s tasting menu consisting of three, four or five courses. The seasonal menu changes frequently, but you’ll always find layers of flavors, a play of textures and artful presentation. Dishes have included truffle-roasted cauliflower, hearty lobster bisque, fresh fish, pork belly and risotto.

The boutique Hotel Corque in Solvang is the home of contemporary farm-to-table eatery Root 246. Chef Crystal “Pink” DeLongpre puts her personal stamp on such dishes as grilled shrimp with peanut mole, roasted Santa Barbara halibut and Niman Ranch St Louis ribs with a slab of cornbread. Produce is from local farms and animal proteins are responsibly sourced. Tipple from an extensive local wine, craft beer, cider and signature cocktail list.

Mad & Vin, which translates to “food and wine” in Danish, is located inside The Landsby hotel in Solvang. The design is clean and contemporary with a touch of traditional Scandinavia and mid-century-modern. Chef Beto Huizar spotlights fresh Central Coast ingredients in his wine-country inspired cuisine. Expect dishes like lamb osso bucco with mole demi-glace, skillet-charred local fish with sparkling wine beurre blanc and grilled rib eye steak with smoky blue cheese butter.

The Gathering Table at the Ballard Inn

The Gathering Table

lives up to its name with a welcoming dining room, fireplace and casual warmth. Whether you sit at the communal table or not, Chef Budi Kazali’s French-Asian inspired cuisine is perfect for sharing. Look for cozy winter dishes like lamb lollipops with Jerusalem artichokes, seared Maine scallops and braised short ribs.

You’ll see why this is a go-to spot for a happy and well-fed mix of locals and visitors. 

W I N T E R 2 019

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DINING OUT

The restaurants listed here are selected for quality of food, service, ambiance and variety. Star Symbols (-) highlight our supporting advertisers. Dollar ($) symbols are provided for comparative pricing. Please call for hours of operation and reservations.

For expanded listings visit sbseasons.com/restaurant-guide.

E X C E L L E N T R E S TA U R A N T S I N M O N T E C I T O, S A N TA B A R B A R A , G O L E TA A N D S A N TA Y N E Z VA L L E Y

Montecito Bella Vista (Contemporary Italian) at the Four Seasons

Resort The Biltmore commands panoramic ocean views across Montecito’s Butterfly Beach and promises top notch cuisine and impeccable service. Guests enjoy a contemporary Italian menu showcasing fresh California ingredients. It’s also home to one of the most celebrated Sunday brunches in the U.S. 1260 Channel Dr., 805/969-2261. $$$–$$$$

Cava (Mexican) serves the bold flavors of Spain,

Mexico and Latin America in a charming setting with classic margaritas and martinis amid a vibrant outdoor patio, romantic dining room or cozy fireplace.

1212 Coast Village Rd., 805/969-8500. $$–$$$

Lucky’s (American) offers steaks, chops and seafood as well as chicken entrées, wonderful salads, six different potato dishes and beautiful desserts.

The wine list runs to the extravagant. The adjacent bar is a favorite among locals. 1279 Coast Village Rd., 805/565-7540. $$$–$$$$ Montecito Wine Bistro (Californian) is a casual yet sophisticated spot to sit on the outdoor patio or cozy up to the fireplace and nibble wine-friendly food, and sip wines by the glass or the flight, or enjoy a cocktail.

516 San Ysidro Rd., 805/969-7520. $$–$$$ The Monarch (American) at the historic Montecito

Inn is inspired by quaint European restaurants and offers dishes crafted from an impressive selection of local vegetables, fruits, meats, seafood, herbs, and wines. Guests start their meal with unique spreads like sea urchin or figs and blue cheese flatbreads and continue with hearty main courses like white sea bass or filet mignon. A wood-burning hearth inside an elegant dining room creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable culinary experience. 1295 Coast Village Rd., 805/869-0789. $$$-$$$$

Oliver’s of Montecito (Gourmet Vegan) brings health

daily. 900 San Ysidro Ln., 805/565-1700. $$$ Expected to reopen in January after damage repairs from mudslides.

Stella Mare’s (French) pairs a beautiful Victorian

bar-café (Seafood), has two terraces for al fresco dining on more casual fare. 113 Harbor Way, 805/564-1200. $$–$$$

Convivo Restaurant and Bar (Italian) located

building with stylish, Normandy-inspired cuisine.

The glass-encased greenhouse’s panoramic view and fireside couches make it a perfect spot for listening to Wednesday night jazz. 50 Los Patos Way, 805/969-6705. $$–$$$

across from East Beach on the ground floor of the historic Santa Barbara Inn, draws its inspiration from Santa Barbara’s bounty of seafood and meats prepared “Nomad Italian” style. Enjoy al fresco dining with a view of the Channel Islands. 901 E. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/845-6789. $$-$$$

Stonehouse Restaurant (American) is located in a 19th century citrus packing house on the grounds of San Ysidro Ranch. Stonehouse has a full bar and a menu that emphasizes local fish and produce.

Open daily for dinner only. 900 San Ysidro Ln., 805/565-1700. $$$$ Expected to reopen in January after damage repairs from mudslides.

Due Lune Cucina (Italian) serves hand-made pasta, seafood and dishes from Italy using the finest ingredients.

Open seven days a week serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this lovely restaurant offers high quality Italian cooking with an ocean view. 1 State St. 805/770-3112, $$$

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Tre Lune (Italian) offers a delicious menu that isn’t

afraid of flavor. The high quality, genuine Italian cuisine includes excellent minestrone soup, fall-off-the-fork ossobuco, basil pesto, lobster ravioli and more. 1151 Coast Village Rd., 805/969-2646. $$$

Santa Barbara Waterfront

Bluewater Grill (Seafood) zeroes in on fresh,

sustainable seafood and pairs it with produce from local farms. The harbor views are spectacular from this restored lighthouse-themed building, especially from the second floor and the waterfront outdoor patio.

15 E. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/845-5121. $$-$$$

- Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach (Seafood) serves locally caught, fresh seafood specialties.

Dine inside or al fresco with one of the best ocean views in Santa Barbara. Full bar and regional wine list.

2981 Cliff Dr., 805/898-2628. $$–$$$

The Harbor Restaurant and Longboard’s Grill (Seafood) on Stearns Wharf are two different experiences from one great vantage point. The Harbor is a romantic ocean-view restaurant and Longboard’s is a noisy, energy-packed bar and grill. 210 Stearns Wharf, 805/963-3311. $$–$$$ Rodney’s Grill (American) celebrates the cuisine

and wines of the Central Coast with seasonal chef specials that are inspired by early California Spanish and Native American cooking styles. Located in the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Rodney’s menu spotlights naturally raised meats and poultry, seasonal produce and sustainable seafood—all paired with wines from the finest local vineyards.

633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/884-8535. $$$

Santa Barbara FisHouse (Seafood) serves fresh local fish in a lively setting. Gathering with friends on the dining terrace with ocean views is the perfect way to start the weekend. Be sure to order lobster during the season from these “lobster specialists.” 101 E. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/966-2112. $$

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and wellness to the forefront of the dining experience.

Oliver’s innovative menu is inspired by nature, minimally processed and carefully prepared to provide guests with delicious and vibrant food.. 1198 Coast Village Rd., 805/969-0834. $$$

Brophy Bros. (Seafood) has long been one of Santa Barbara’s most popular eateries and is located at the harbor with excellent views. You’ll find great shellfish cocktails and fresh fish here. 119 Harbor Way, 805/966-4418. $$

Santa Barbara Shellfish Co. (Seafood) is a fun, no-frills seafood-lover’s paradise. Select your dinner fresh from the tanks or from that day’s catch just steps from the ocean. 230 Stearns Wharf, 805/966-6676. $$

- Plow and Angel (American) is a cozy restaurant

Chuck’s Waterfront Grill (Steak, Seafood) serves

open-air beach restaurant. Salads, burgers, fish tacos, fresh seafood and vegetarian items are served daily. Breakfast served on weekends.

801 Shoreline Dr., 805/568-0064. $$

attached to the bar at San Ysidro Ranch and is well known for its comfort food—famous mac ‘n cheese and ribs are just some of the choices. Dinner and bar service

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prime-grade top sirloin steaks and Australian lobster tail among many other delicious offerings. The restaurant’s lively upstairs extension, The Endless Summer

Shoreline Beach Café (Mexican, Seafood) is a lively,

SCRATCH-MADE

Toma Restaurant and Bar (Italian) is a romantic spot to savor excellent Italian and Mediterranean dishes from Santa Barbara’s seasonal bounty while enjoying warm and attentive service and a view of the enchanting Santa Barbara harbor. 324 W. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/962-0777. $$-$$$

CUISINE INSPIRED BY

Downtown

STREET FOOD CARTS

THE BOLD FLAVORS DISCOVERED IN OF THAILAND AND

Arigato Sushi (Japanese) provides designer sushi

from inventive chefs. Daily specials explore the limitless varieties of this Japanese delicacy. 1225 State St., 805/965-6074. $$$

VIETNAM.

Arnoldi’s Café (Italian) specializes in traditional

homestyle Italian cuisine, featuring the freshest local produce and seafood, imported Italian meats, cheeses and olive oils, as well as an extensive wine list, bocce courts and a heated patio. 600 Olive St., 805/962-5394. $$$

805.880.4227 | WWW.TYGERTYGERSB.COM

Barbareño (Californian) specializes in Santa Barbara-

centric dishes with a contemporary twist in a casual, refined rustic setting. The food is a modern interpretation of traditional dishes that are rooted in the area. The farmers’ market-driven menu changes weekly—think re-imagined Santa Maria barbecue as cold-smoked beef tartare, served with pico de gallo ingredients and pinquito beans. 205 W. Canon Perdido St., 805/963-9591. $$$

Benchmark Eatery (Seafood, American) is a casual eatery that does American fare proud, with everything from soul-satisfying pastas, pizzas, grilled ahi and fish and chips to fresh salads, juicy burgers and generous sandwiches. 1201 State St., 805/845-2600, $-$$ Bibi Ji (Indian, Seafood) is an inventive “inauthentic”

Indian restaurant from acclaimed chef Jessi Singh and James Beard Award-winning sommelier Rajat Parr, with a locally inspired menu emphasizing seafood.

734 State St., 805/560-6845. $$-$$$

ICE CREAM AND FROZEN TREATS FLAVORED WITH ASIAN SPICES AND EXOTIC TASTES.

Blackbird (Californian) in Hotel Californian, features

exquisite Mediterranean-influenced cuisine emphasizing locally-sourced and hyper-seasonal ingredients in a sleek, yet approachable and wholly unpretentious atmosphere.

Dinner only. 36 State St., 805/882-0135. $$$

Black Sheep (Californian) has a cool, casual vibe, but

serves seriously good farm-to-table food. Try scallop crudo, roasted bone marrow or re-constructed chicken stuffed with walnuts and dried apricots. 26 E. Ortega St., 805/965-1113. $$$

805.880.4228 | WWW.MONKEYSHINESB.COM

NOW OPEN IN THE FUNK ZONE 121 EAST YANONALI STREET SANTA BARBARA, CA

DINING OUT

Bouchon (Californian French) serves “Santa Barbara

Wine Country” cuisine complemented by a remarkable wine list that includes more than 50 Central Coast wines by the glass. Open for dinner nightly. 9 W. Victoria St., 805/730-1160. $$$

A shared dining experience featuring artisanal & seasonal ingredients, celebrating the central coast.

2016 Santa Barbara’s 12 Best Places to Eat – Thrillist.com

Ca’Dario (Italian) promises fine Italian cuisine, whether pasta, fish or fowl—don’t miss the ravioli pillows with brown butter and sage sauce and grilled asparagus wrapped with pancetta—and an extensive wine list. A few doors down, Ca’Dario Pizzeria features a tasty array of pizzas, including gluten-free options. For a quick fix, try Ca’Dario Pizzeria Veloce and Pasta Veloce in the Santa Barbara Public Market (38 W. Victoria St.). 37 E. Victoria St., 805/884-9419. $$$ Carlitos Café y Cantina (Mexican) offers exciting regional Mexican cuisine and 100% blue agave Margaritas, along with fresh, imaginative Mexican grilled specialties that borrow from Pueblo, Mayan and Aztec cultures. 1324 State St., 805/962-7117. $$ Casa Blanca Restaurant & Cantina (Mexican) is a fun Mexican hot spot with killer Margaritas, tasty tacos, ample enchiladas and other classic south-of-the-border inspired fare. 330 State St., 805/845-8966. $$

Seasonally inspired dinner nightly; cheese & housemade charcuterie at 3pm; gourmet brunch Saturday & Sunday.

100 Best Wine Bars in America – Wine Enthusiast

1 3 1 A N A C A PA S T R E E T, S T E B , S A N T A B A R B A R A 8 0 5 - 2 8 4 - 0 3 8 0 L E S M A R C H A N D S W I N E . C O M

China Pavilion (Chinese) is a spacious and charming restaurant with large picture windows looking out over downtown Santa Barbara. It features high-quality traditional Chinese food, as well as a delicious dim sum brunch on weekends. 1202 Chapala St., 805/560-6028. $$ El Paseo Restaurant (Mexican) oozes with the

character of old Mexico. The bar—where great margaritas are the norm—is separated from the festive dining room by large archways, beyond which are a courtyard and a fountain. 813 Anacapa St., 805/9626050. $$–$$$

Enterprise Fish Co. (Seafood) is one of Santa

Barbara’s largest and busiest seafood restaurants. In an exhilarating, nautical atmosphere are an oyster bar and a variety of fresh fish that are mesquite-broiled and served at reasonable prices. 225 State St., 805/962-3313. $$

Finch & Fork (Californian) in the Canary Hotel offers

Serving authentic Spanish food including hot and cold tapas, wood-fire grilled seafood and meat, and seasonal paella.

10 Best New Restaurants for 2017 – USA Today

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805-880-3380

LO Q U I TA S B . C O M

hearty items like buttermilk fried chicken and excellently prepared lighter fare, complete with farm-fresh salads, fresh oysters and yummy flatbreads, plus excellent cocktails. 31 W. Carrillo St., 805/879-9100. $$–$$$

Intermezzo Bar/Café (Californian) serves local wines on tap, craft cocktails and light fare such as burgers, flatbreads, salads and desserts ‘til late.

Enjoy an array of small plates to share—including charcuterie, oysters, mussels, steak bites and the crispy cauliflower—make this a perfect pre- or post-theater stop. Now open Tues.-Sat. for lunch, as well as daily for dinner. 819 Anacapa St., 805/966-9463. $$–$$$

Jane (Californian) offers upscale, fresh, tasty fare that runs the gamut from huge seasonal salads and gourmet burgers to fish and chips with chipotle ketchup and creamy dill. The delicious goat cheese pancakes with smoked salmon and caviar are crafted from a family recipe. 1311 State St., 805/962-1311. $$

Breakfast • Lunch Dinner • Cocktails

Joe’s Café (American) is a Santa Barbara icon known for its stiff cocktails and raucous atmosphere. The menu of American classics includes steaks, sandwiches and Mexican specialties. Lunch and dinner served daily; breakfast served weekends. 536 State St., 805/966-4638. $$ The Lark (American) delights with Chef Jason Paluska’s sophisticated family-style plates designed to share and made with the freshest possible local “farm-to-fork” ingredients, along with creative cocktails and a wonderful wine selection. Dinner, Tues.–Sun. 131 Anacapa St., 805/284-0370. $$–$$$

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- Les Marchands (European) is a

European-styled restaurant and wine retail shop lead by a world-class team of certified sommeliers offering an extensive wine list from the finest small producers from Santa Barbara County and throughout Europe. A full bar of handcrafted artisan spirits complements the wine program with classic stirred cocktails made in the old-school traditional way.

The menu showcases seasonally inspired food for dinner nightly. 131 Anacapa St. Ste. B, 805/ 284-0380. $–$$$

The Little Door (Mediterranean) brings together

harmonious, farm-to-table inspired dishes with beautiful ambiance for a quaint dining experience with views overlooking the Courthouse Sunken Garden. 129 E. Anapamu St., 805/560-8002. $$$

Loquita (Spanish) specializes in authentic Spanish food, including hot and cold tapas, wood-fired seafood, grilled meats, and three types of paella. Executive Chef Peter Lee’s innovative cuisine has a California twist and is complimented with a full bar of Spanish and local wines and spirits. 202 State St., 805/880-3380. $$-$$$

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Louie’s (Californian), located inside Santa Barbara’s oldest operating hotel, The Upham, reflects the charm and tradition of its location. You’ll find extraordinary fresh seafood, pastas, filet mignon and a changing menu of specialties, with options to dine outside on a beautiful wrap-around porch or inside at tables tucked into intimate alcoves. 1404 De La Vina St., 805/963-7003. $$–$$$ Mizza Artisan Pizza and Italian Cuisine (Italian) is a beautiful new indoor/outdoor dining experience at the entrance to the historic La Arcada Plaza. Featuring k

2981 Cliff Drive (805) 898-2628 www.boathousesb.com

DINING OUT

handmade artisan pizzas, handmade pastas, salads, locally caught fresh fish, free-range chicken and Harris ranch CAB meats, along with local fresh produce, and a selection of carefully selected house specialties, the patios at Mizza are a great place to watch the world go by in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Serving lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 1112 State St., $-$$

Mollie’s (Italian) features the dynamic cuisine of

longtime local favorite Chef Mollie Ahlstrand, formerly of the beloved Trattoria Mollie. This warm, upscale eatery specializes in Italian classics that the Ethiopian born and bred Mollie gathered during her years of training with “the best chefs in Italy.” Try the homemade pastas, and the celebrated turkey meatballs. Open for lunch and dinner. 1218 State St. 805/770-8300. $$$

Olio e Limone (Italian) uses only the freshest ingredients for simply delicious preparations. Tuck into a plate of housemade ravioli filled with roasted eggplant and goat cheese, topped with a fresh tomato and basil sauce and shaved ricotta salata. Olio Pizzeria offers a casual pizza bar, wine and cocktails next door, while Olio Crudo Bar offers cocktails and sashimi with an Italian accent! 11 W. Victoria St. #17, 805/899-2699 ext.1. $$$ Opal (Californian) is a classic European-style bistro

serving eclectic California cuisine complemented by a wood-burning pizza oven, an extensive wine list and full bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 1325 State St., 805/966-9676. $$

Lauren Herman in a beautiful setting that’s great for both small and large gatherings. The lovely outdoor patio is perfect for dining under both the stars and the sunshine, with a gorgeous canopy of 100-year-old olive trees. 7 E. Anapamu St., 805/845-7112. $$-$$$

Viva (Mexican) indulges your senses with its modern Mexican cuisine, beautiful courtyard patio and inviting dining room in the historic La Arcada. Taco happy hour (Mon.-Fri. from 3-6 p.m.) is a perfect time to sample creative tacos and other antojitos, or “small cravings,” along with the raw bar’s piquant ceviches and fresh shellfish. 1114 State St., 805/965-4770. $$

ambiance of pure scenic beauty, with ceiling-to-floor windows boasting expansive panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from every table and a striking 25-seat bar topped with vibrant blue Amazonite quartz that mirrors the dazzle and grandeur of the ocean.

8301 Hollister Ave., 805/571-4240. $$$-$$$$ Beachside Bar + Café (Seafood) sits just above the sand and Goleta Pier, and serves expertly prepared fish and other delicious foods for lunch and dinner in the tropical-style dining room, on the glass-walled open-air patio, at the oyster bar or in the big, full-service bar— all with wide views of the ocean and sandy beach.

5905 Sandspit Rd., 805/964-7881. $$-$$$

Wine Cask (Californian) in the historic El Paseo complex

offers a beautiful spot to enjoy fine dining and exceptional service in a relaxed setting. Don’t miss the stellar wine selections, including an impressive variety of local wines on tap. 813 Anacapa St., 805/966-9463. $$$

Uptown

- Belmond El Encanto (Coastal-Californian) presents California coastal cuisine and seasonal favorites from executive chef Johan Denizot, featuring specialties like fresh local oysters, pan seared diver scallops and short ribs sous vide alongside stunning Santa Barbara views.

Sit under the stars on the terrace or in the elegant dining room. 800 Alvarado Pl., 805/770-3530.

$$$-$$$$

Hollister Brewing Company (American) offers a rotating menu of beers on tap. Menu items include duck fat French fries, Kobe beef sliders and fish tacos.

6980 Marketplace Dr., 805/968-2810. $-$$ Jane at the Marketplace (Californian), presents flavorful fare for lunch and dinner including steak, chicken and pasta in cozy surroundings. This is a bright, sunny space known for its friendly service and authentic family recipes. 6940 Marketplace Dr., 805/770-5388. $$ Outpost (Californian) is a casual, hip spot at the Goodland Hotel. The excellent seasonal menu includes shareable plates, entrees and fresh salads, as well as fish tacos with battered halibut, flat iron steak with salsa verde, pork bao buns and a caper-studded Caesar salad with grilled romaine. 5650 Calle Real, 805/964-1288. $$-$$$

The Palace Grill (Cajun) is a place resonating with jazz music that creates the perfect setting for spicy food and spirited service to chase the blues away. Features authentic Louisiana specialities like jambalaya, crawfish etouffée and blackened steaks and seafood.

8 E. Cota St., 805/963-5000. $$–$$$

Chuck’s of Hawaii (American) is the home of California’s first salad bar and offers award-winning steaks and fresh seafood right from the grill.

A local favorite hangout since 1967. 3888 State St., 805/687-4417. $$-$$$

Paradise Café (American) has a unique old building

from Santa Barbara Golf Club and is a neighborhood hot spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour— try the juicy burgers on brioche buns or heart-warming coq au vin. 3302 McCaw Ave., 805/569-7698. $$

rooftop patio, offering lunch, craft cocktails and small bites, with a breathtaking panoramic view.

This unexpected gem features creative shared plates from Executive Chef Michael Blackwell, to be enjoyed in cozy fireplace groupings under the stars. 6878 Hollister Ave., 805/562-5996. $-$$

Lure Fish House (Seafood) specializes in fresh and

Santa Ynez Mountains

with wall murals from the 1940s. It has one of Santa Barbara’s favorite patios for dining and a bar that will take you back in time with cocktails of your choice and a well-selected wine and beer list.

702 Anacapa St., 805/962-4416. $$

Le Café Stella (French-American) is perched across

Petit Valentien (French), with its quaint atmosphere

sustainable seafood from trusted sources and locally caught seafood, organically grown local produce, and wines from local vineyards whenever possible.

3815 State St., 805/618-1816. $$-$$$

Santo Mezcal (Mexican) is located next to Hotel Indigo

The Tee-Off (American) is a friendly steak and seafood restaurant and lounge with a long history of local appreciation that features a short but sweet menu of steaks, chops, chicken and seafood. 3627 State St., 805/687-1616. $$-$$$

and intimate setting, is hidden away in a small corner of La Arcada. Be sure to check out the prix fixe menu only available on Sundays. 1114 State St. #16, 805/966-0222. $$

a block from Stearns Wharf. The restaurant showcases fine cuisine rooted in Mexican flavors and traditions that also celebrate local ingredients, and an impressive cocktail menu featuring an extensive mescal and tequila collection.

Dining options include tables inside or outside on the patio, where the sights and scenes of lower State Street abound.

119 State St., 805/883-3593. $$

Smithy Kitchen + Bar (Californian) features organic, rustic, locally-sourced fare from critically acclaimed Chef

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Goleta Angel Oak (French-Californian) is a modern steak and seafood restaurant housed at Ritz-Carlton Bacara, featuring classic steakhouse dishes with a uniquely Santa Barbara interpretation. Accompanying the cuisine is an

Rooftop Bistro & Bar (Californian) is a modern

Cold Spring Tavern (American) is an iconic

establishment virtually unchanged since the days of the stagecoach run that has served excellent food—including wild game—to hungry locals and travelers alike for more than 100 years. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5995 Stagecoach Rd., 805/967-0066 . $$$

Santa Ynez Valley, Los Alamos Valley The Bear and Star (American) at Fess Parker’s Wine Country Inn takes its name from the two states Parker called home, Texas and California, celebrating refined ranch cuisine paired with California’s bounty.

2860 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, 805/686-1359. $$–$$$$

Brothers Restaurant at the Red Barn (American) offers innovative, “made from scratch” cuisine in this exquisitely refurbished barn. The hearty menu offers American classics like chops, prime rib and chicken-fried steak. Lunch and dinner served daily. 3539 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805/688-4142. $$-$$$$

Dos Carlitos Restaurant & Tequila Bar (Mexican) brings bold Mexican and Latin flavors to the valley. An open-fire grill imparts a smoky essence to authentic grilled specials, delicious salsas and the aroma of fresh handmade tortillas. 3544 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805/688-0033. $$

First & Oak (Fusion) distinguishes itself with beautifully prepared, elegant small plates designed to pair with fine wines and allow guests to taste multiple, exciting dishes in a single sitting. Housed in the charming Mirabelle Inn, this modern American restaurant has a European influence as well as a Californian emphasis on food that is seasonal, local and sustainable. 409 First St., Solvang, 805/688-1703. $$$ The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn (California

Fusion) is overseen by Owner/Chef Budi Kazali and offers a fun and inviting place to gather over incredible food that’s meant to be shared in a warm and inviting modern farmhouse atmosphere. 2436 Baseline Ave., Ballard, 805/688-7770. $$-$$$$

well as international selections. 458 Bell St., Los Alamos, 805/344-1122. $$-$$$

Root 246 (American), located at Hotel Corque, features innovative cuisine emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients to create the ultimate in farm-to-table cuisine. Root 246 has one of the area’s most extensive selections of local wines, whiskey and craft beers, as well as refreshing signature cocktails. Try the Sunday brunch for a delicious weekend experience.

420 Alisol Rd., Solvang, 805/686-8681. $$-$$$ Sides Hardware & Shoes—A Brothers Restaurant (American) is located in a restored

1901 building, where chef-owners Jeff and Matt Nichols turn out hearty American favorites with original gourmet twists. The brothers strive to have legendary service, innovative “made from scratch” cuisine, and a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that causes you to return time and time again. Try the delicious Bacon Steak if you need further incentive to return. 2375 Alamo Pintado Ave., Los Olivos, 805/688-4820. $$–$$$

- S.Y. Kitchen (Italian) is a charming “California version of a little Italian farmhouse” with a focus on unfussy rustic Italian food made from fresh, local

ingredients. Expect inventive salads, woodfired pizzas, fabulous cocktails and house-made pastas with everything from seasonal seafood to duck ragu.

Desserts such as house made vanilla panna cotta, and ginger creme brulee are also a hit with guests.

S.Y. Kitchen features an excellent spirits program and an expertly crafted list of wines (both local and European) to pair with the cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 1110 Faraday St., Santa Ynez, 805/691-9794. $$-$$$

Trattoria Grappolo (Italian) is a great destination for gourmet pizzas from a wood-burning oven, fresh salads made with local produce and nightly specials.

Other specialties include: Carpaccio, Rollino Veneto— rolled-up pizza pouches stuffed with smoked mozzarella and radicchio—pastas and fresh seafood dishes. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 3687 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez, 805/688-6899. $$-$$$ The Willows at Chumash Casino Resort (American) is a AAA Four Diamond Award-winner specializing in mouthwatering prime steaks and seafood. The elegance of this exquisite dining room is matched by incomparable views of the rolling Santa Ynez hills. 3400 E. Hwy. 246, Santa Ynez, 805/686-0855. $$$–$$$$

The Hitching Post (American) is an old-fashioned, western-style steakhouse and lounge just a few minutes off Hwy. 101. In addition to Newport Meat Company beef, there are also ribs, quail, turkey, duck and ostrich plus seafood on the menu. 406 E. Hwy. 246, Buellton, 805/688-0676. $$$–$$$$ La Botte Bistro & Catering (Italian) is a culinary gem tucked away into a nondescript strip mall.

With an ambiance that’s as equally quaint and romantic as it is eclectic and fun, this family-owned restaurant provides an unforgettable Italian dining experience served with the heart and soul of Italy. Open for dinner Wed.-Sun. 225 McMurray Rd., Suite A, Buellton, 805/693-2154. $$

Dinner Served Nightly from 5pm Lunch Served Daily 11:30am-2:00pm

Los Olivos Café and Wine Merchant (Californian) is a casual restaurant in one of the town’s original Main Street buildings. The thoughtful menu of homemade pizzas and California cuisine is complemented with an enormous list of wines from the adjacent store. 2879 Grand Ave., Los Olivos, 805/688-7265. $$

Pico (Californian), specializes in a menu of approachable Californian cuisine sourced from locally farmed, seasonal ingredients. Chef Drew Terp offers a creative, eclectic spin on American comfort food with an extensive wine list showcasing the best from Santa Barbara’s wine country, as

Custom Catering Private Dining Special Events 1110 Faraday Santa Ynez, Ca 805.691.9794 www.sykitchen.com

Golf

Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County is one of America’s most desirable golf destinations, with splendid courses designed to maximize enjoyment of the region’s splendor and moderate climate.

GLEN ANNIE GOLF CLUB

SANDPIPER GOLF CLUB

GOLETA

GOLETA

In the rolling foothills of Goleta, 15 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, this meticulously maintained and challenging layout offers panoramic ocean, Channel Island and mountain views from nearly every hole. The tee shot from #16, for example, decends 150 ft. in elevation to land softly on a manicured landscape near an adjacent lake with a cascading stream. The clubhouse complex includes Frog Bar & Grill and scenic patios with excellent facilities for gatherings of up to 300. Par 71. Stroke rating from men’s tees: 71.1; slope rating, 122. 143. 405 Glen Annie Rd., 805/968-

Established in 1972 as the county’s first resort course open to the public, Sandpiper is an inspiring 18 holes of seaside golf on an extraordinary terrain, with an acclaimed layout named by Golf Digest as one of the top 25 public golf courses in the U.S. Designed by renowned architect William F. Bell, the links-style layout features rolling fairways leading to enormous greens with ocean views from nearly every hole. The stretch of holes 10–14 is one of the most memorable experiences of any golfer’s life. Par 72. Stroke rating from men’s tees: 74.7; slope rating, 136. 7925 Hollister Ave., 805/968-1541,

6400, glenanniegolf.com.

sandpipergolf.com.

LA PURISIMA GOLF COURSE LOMPOC

Near the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country, “La P” is challenging, pure golf with long, twisting fairways bordered at times by oak and eucalyptus groves and protected by sand, water and out-of-bounds stakes, finishing with big, lightning-fast greens.

In the afternoon, wind often becomes a factor, making the closing holes our own “Amen Corner.” Designed by world-renowned architect Robert Muir Graves, a round at La Purisima will not soon be forgotten, and is worth the drive.

Par 72. Stroke rating from men’s tees: 74.9; slope rating, 143. 3455 E. Hwy. 246, 805/735-8395,

lapurisimagolf.com.

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FEATURED GOLF COURSES FEATURED GOLF COURSES

FEATURED FOR WINTER

Rancho San Marcos Rancho San RANCHO SANMarcos MARCOS Golf Course SANTA YNEZ MOUNTAINS Golf Course FEATURED FOR WINTER FEATURED FOR WINTER

incredibly scenic Highway 154—the historic road that winds off incredibly theFROM northSANTA end of State Street FIF TE E NT MINUTES UP scenic Highway 154—the WELVE MILES BARBAR A,into up the Santa Ynez Mountains and leads to the charming towns historic road that winds off the north end of State Street into scenic Hwy. Ynez 154—the historic road has winding and wineries of the Santa beentowns the Santa Ynez MountainsValley—“Rancho” and leads to the charming acclaimed by nearly major golf magazine in Mountains America and wineries ofevery the Santa Ynez has been off State Street into theValley—“Rancho” Santa Ynez as offering one ofbythe finest golfing experiences in California. acclaimed nearly every major golf magazine in America leads rolling to the charming Santa with Ynez ancient Valley Spreadasout in that a valley offering one ofofthe finestterrain golfingstudded experiences in California. oaks and other leafing trees,ofthe historic land this Robert wineries—“Rancho” has been acclaimed one Spread out in a valley rolling terrain studded withasancient Tent Jones, Jr. golf course traverses ishistoric bordered by this the Santa oaks and other leafing trees, the land Robert of the finest experiences in Southern California.

Ynez Rivet—which Tent Jones, Jr.fills golfnearby courseCachuma traverses Lake—and is borderedfeatures by the Santa This historicfills land challenges with sand, islakes, views Ynez of distant furrowed peaks.

Every level ofLake—and golfer chalRivet—which nearby Cachuma features distant furrowed peaks.

Every level of golfer is challengedviews with of sand, lakes, fields of native grasses and chaparthe Santa Ynez River, fields of native grasses, with sand, lakes, fields of native A grasses and chaparral, thelenged river itself and changes in elevation. comfortable oak tree-lined chaparral and changes in ral, theclubhouse river itselfincludes and changes in Stable’s elevation.

A comfortable ranch-style Davy’s Café, with ranch-style clubhouse includes Davy’s Stable’s Café, with good food to enjoy insideAor outside on scenic patios. elevation. comfortable clubhouse has a grill good food to enjoy inside or outside on scenic patios. with food to go or to enjoy at tables inside or

FIF TEEN MINUTES UP

outside on scenic patios.

Par 71. Yardage and stroke ratings: Black (6,939 yards, 73.9/137); 71. yards, Yardage and stroke ratings: Black (6,939 yards, 73.9/137); White Par (6,278 70.8/131); Green (5,386 yards, 71.3/129).

White (6,278 yards, 70.8/131); Green (5,386 yards, 71.3/129).

Par 71. Stroke rating from men’s tees: 73.1; slope rating, 135. 4600 Hwy. 4600 Hwy. 154, 805/683-6334, rsm1804.com.

154,154, 805/683-6334, rsm1804.com.

4600 Hwy. 805/683-6334, rsm1804.com.

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E XPLORE SA NTA BA RBA R A COUNT Y

EXPLORE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY For an interactive map of these destinations, visit sbseasons.com/explore-sb/.

1

Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a National Historic Landmark in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, was dedicated in 1929.

Its immense landscaped courtyard and sunken garden are the sites of public celebrations year round. | 1100 Anacapa St. Docent tours Mon.–Fri. 10:30 a.m.; Daily 2 p.m. 805/962-6464, santabarbaracourthouse.org.

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Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s outstanding permanent and special collections, housed in a stately building constructed in 1914 as the city’s first federally funded post office, include the only remaining intact mural by Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros, Portrait of Mexico Today. | 1130 State St. Tues.–Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 805/963-4364, sbma.net.

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La Arcada, designed by architect Myron Hunt in 1926, is home to a wealth of galleries, shops and restaurants. Dotted along the way are historical curios and sculptures, with all roads leading to the much-loved central fountain inhabited by turtles and fish. | 1100 block of State Street.

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Paseo Nuevo is a charming outdoor destination to shop, dine, relax, stroll and people watch. Featuring Spanish-style

architecture, Paseo Nuevo is also home to Center Stage Theater, a black box venue showcasing live performances, and MCA Santa Barbara, a museum dedicated to exhibiting the highest quality of contemporary art while recognizing the artists of tomorrow withinnovative exhibitions. | 651 & 653 Paseo Nuevo. paseonuevoshopping.com, mcasantabarbara.org.

1. County Courthouse

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Santa Barbara Public Market offers foodies an impressive collection of purveyors focused on handcrafted, regionally sourced and sustainably made foods. The LEED certified space offers a diverse array of merchants and a truly unique destination to dine, drink, gather and host special events. | 38 W. Victoria St. at Chapala, Mon.-Thurs. 7:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.–10 p.m., sbpublicmarket.com.

PRESIDIO NEIGHBORHOOD is a vibrant section developed around the historic site of the last remaining Spanish fortresses built in California, called presidios. In addition to being Santa Barbara’s birthplace, El Presidio de Santa Barbara, the neighborhood is also home to the historic Lobero Theatre, one of the city’s architectural jewels, as well as Casa de la Guerra historic house museum. El Paseo, a charming adobe plaza built in the 1820s, houses several nice shops and restaurants, along with The Wine Collection of El Paseo, an upscale array of six excellent wine tasting rooms open daily from noon to 6 p.m. (located off of the 800 block of State Street).

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Santa Barbara Historical Museum exhibits fine art and artifacts from local history. Visit Gledhill Library and the new Edward Borein Gallery, which memorializes the artist’s work. | 136 E. De la Guerra St. Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun. Noon–5 p.m.

805/966-1601, santabarbaramuseum.com.

10. Museum of Natural History

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El Presidio de Santa Barbara was founded in 1782 to offer protection to the mission and settlers, provide a seat of government and guard against foreign invasion, and is now a state historic park. | 123 E. Canon Perdido St. 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily. 805/9650093, sbthp.org.

MISSION DISTRICT, identified by Mission Santa Barbara, is among the oldest residential neighborhoods in the city. Characterized by revivalstyle architecture, it is also home to the Mission Historical Park and rose garden.

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Santa Barbara Botanic Garden’s 78 acres, accessed by five and a half miles of trails, record the history of the state’s rare and indigenous plants. From the dramatic opening view through the meadows, chaparral and forest to the sweeping ridge-top views of the Channel Islands, the garden is a skillful display of California’s natural bounty. | 1212 Mission Canyon Rd. Mar.–Oct. 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Nov.–Feb. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 805/682-4726, sbbg.org.

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Mission Santa Barbara was dedicated in 1786 by Father Fermin Lasuén. Known as “Queen of the Missions” for its twin bell towers, it remains the only California mission to be continuously occupied by the Franciscans. | 2201 Laguna St. Daily tours 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

805/682-4713, sbmission.org; santabarbaramission.org.

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PHOTOS: MERCEDES LOWE

DOWNTOWN STATE STREET defines the city’s center—and its heart. The intersection of State and Carrillo streets is where Captain Salisbury Haley hammered an iron stake in 1850 to designate the future midtown area. The self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour is a great way to get your bearings (map is available at Santa Barbara Visitor Center, 1 Garden St.). Don’t miss the historic Arlington Theatre, a notable example of both Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival architectural styles. Also worth visiting is the beautiful Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, named after the benefactor who donated the prime property.

B E L M O N D E L E N C A N T O , S A N TA B A R B A R A

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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, open since 1916, provides science and nature education to generations of visitors. The museum, located along Mission Creek, reconnects more than 100,000 people each year—including 5,700 members—to nature indoors and outdoors. | 2559 Puesta del Sol Rd. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. 805/682-4711, sbnature.org.

WATERFRONT, running the length of Cabrillo Boulevard from East Beach to the harbor, is a feast for outdoor enthusiasts. A paved pathway runs the full distance.

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Andree Clark Bird Refuge— an artificial freshwater lake and marsh pond adjacent to the zoo —provides one of the best biking/jogging/skating paths in the area. | 1400 E. Cabrillo Blvd. 805/564-5418.

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Santa Barbara Harbor and Breakwater is a working harbor, home to fishing boats, private yachts and nearly 1,200 excursion and sightseeing boats. It is always a busy and interesting place to walk, skate, bike, eat and purchase fresh catch at Fisherman’s Market every Saturday morning. | Off Cabrillo Blvd.

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Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, situated on the harbor’s historic breakwater, presents the region’s rich local maritime history. From ancient seafaring Chumash to modern-day deep-sea research, the emphasis is on human interaction with the sea. | 113 Harbor Way. Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, except Saturdays 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., and closed Wednesdays. 805/962-8404, sbmm.org.

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Stearns Wharf, a Santa Barbara icon, was built by a Vermont native in 1876 to accommodate ocean-going vessels. Once owned by Jimmy Cagney, its dramatic views of the city and the hills beyond, as well as its mix of shops and restaurants, have charmed visitors for more than a century. | State St. at Cabrillo Blvd.

A HAVEN OF PEACE AND TRANQUILITY IN SANTA BARBARA The Spa at Belmond El Encanto is the most idyllic day spa offering an array of treatments featuring local ingredients that relax the mind and rejuvenate the body.

Local residents enjoy a special 20% off select spa treatments and salon services every Monday through Thursday.

To book your next appointment, please call 805 770 3545.

8. Botanic Garden

800 ALVARADO PLACE, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103 | 805 845 5800

HOTELS | TRAINS | RIVER CRUISES | JOURNEYS | BELMOND.COM

E XPLORE SA NTA BA RBA R A COUNT Y

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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center on Stearns Wharf engages visitors of all ages with interactive exhibits, opportunities to work like scientists, a theater showcasing the wonders of Santa Barbara Channel, a live shark touch pool and a 1,500-gallon tide pool tank. Discover the fun in science and the wonders of the natural world. | State St. at Cabrillo Blvd. 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. 805/962-2526, sbnature.org.

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Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show is the longest-running public weekly art show in the country, with more than 250 exhibitors, all there in person and carefully screened to ensure originality of work. | Cabrillo Blvd. between State and Calle Puerta Vallarta streets. Sun. 10 a.m. to dusk.

805/897-2519, santabarbaraca.gov.

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The Mill is a distinctively modern spin on the original feed mill constructed in 1904, which is now an artisan marketplace, featuring a production winery, craft brewery and farm-to-table barbecue restaurant, as well as some unique retail offerings. | 406 E. Haley St., 10 a.m.–10 p.m., 805/965-9555, themillsb.com.

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Santa Barbara Zoo opened to the public in 1963 with only seven residents. Now more than 500 animals live here, and 30 acres of lush gardens spread across a knoll overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Committed to conservation, species survival and education, the zoo is an enlightening and entertaining place to visit. | 500 Niños Dr. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. 805/962-5339, sbzoo.org.

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MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, is an awe-inspiring experience to motivate a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers, with 17,000 square feet of interactive educational exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). | 125 State St., 805//708-2282, moxi.org.

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Funk Zone is a hotbed of homegrown artistic production known for its eclectic wall murals, ateliers, galleries, alternative exhibition spaces, trendy artist shops and the lively Urban Wine Trail. Half the fun is each surprise that awaits you down the alley or painted on the wall in front of you! | funkzone.net.

Summerland has been home to Indians, Spanish and Yankee settlers, agricultural pioneers and eastern millionaires in search of the perfect climate. Though it has attracted the privileged for more than a century, its genesis was agrarian. Many of the historic estates incorporate the farms and ranches that had originally settled the area. Other remnants of this rich heritage include the 500-acre property on which Harleigh Johnston grew citrus trees until 1893, which later became San Ysidro Ranch, completed in 1935.

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Casa del Herrero is a splendid example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, designed by George Washington Smith, the house—and the gardens—are National Historic Landmarks. The gardens, covering 11 acres, were designed by noted landscape architects Ralph Stevens and Lockwood de Forest and horticulturist Frances T. Underhill. | 1387 E. Valley Rd. Tours Wed. and Sat. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Reservations required. 805/565-5653, casadelherrero.com.

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Ganna Walska Lotusland is a 37-acre garden estate, prized for its rare and exotic plants and providing new perspectives on the sustainability of nature’s offerings. Themed gardens include topiary, bromeliad, succulent, cycad, cactus, fern, Japanese, Australian, water and a blue garden, among others. | Reservations required. Tours Wed.–Sat. 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. between Feb. 18 and Nov. 15., 805/969-9990, lotusland.org.

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Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art educates students and the community about the power and value of the visual arts through physical, critical and spiritual engagement with the creative process and its results. | Westmont College, 955 La Paz Rd. Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

805/565-6162, westmontmuseum.org.

SUMMERLAND is just a stone’s throw off Hwy. 101 and two minutes south of Montecito, and offers the rural charm of an earlier California beach town while maintaining the spirit of an artists’ colony via plentiful antique, home and garden shops, art galleries, boutiques and unpretentious eateries.

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Montecito and Points South

Lookout County Park, off Lillie Avenue at Evans Avenue, is on the bluffs above the beautiful Summerland Beach.

From this vantage point, where full picnic facilities await, there are spectacular views of the Channel Islands. | Exit Hwy. 101 at Evans Ave.

Montecito’s densely wooded, unique and beautiful area between Santa Barbara and

CARPINTERIA is five minutes south of Montecito and Summerland. Although the city

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advertises itself as home to the “world’s safest beach,” visitors also come to roam the avocado-laden hills in search of the orchid fields and hothouses, for which Carpinteria is well known.

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Salt Marsh Nature Reserve, a 230-acre salt marsh, is home to local and migratory waterfowl and fish and is a birder’s dream. | Exit Hwy. 101 at Linden Ave. at Sandyland Rd., turn right and drive three blocks to Ash Ave.

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Carpinteria State Beach and Bluffs are among California’s most popular destinations—the result of a broad beach and good sunning, tide pooling and fishing. For hikers and birdwatchers, it doesn’t get much better than the Carpinteria Bluffs. | Exit Hwy. 101 at Linden Ave. Continue through town to the beach. Park on Linden Ave. or in the Carpinteria State Beach lot.

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Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club was admitted to the U.S. Polo Association in 1911 and moved to its present location shortly thereafter. The club welcomes visitors for Sunday games from May through October. | 3375 Foothill Rd. 805/684-6683, sbpolo.com

Goleta and Points North The city of Goleta and several of the area’s well-known institutions and landmarks are just 10 minutes north of Santa Barbara, including UCSB and two championship golf courses.

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Rancho La Patera, one of the oldest landmarks in Goleta Valley, is home to historic Stow House, a beautiful example of Carpenter Gothic architecture, and Cavalletto History Education Center, which focuses on Goleta’s ranching and agricultural history. | 304 N.Los Carneros Rd. 805/681-7216, stowhouse.com.

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South Coast Railroad Museum, housed in a restored train depot, is a magnet for train buffs. Tours of the Victorian depot, rides on the “Goleta Short Line” miniature train and exhibits are part of the experience. | 300 N. Los Carneros Rd. 805/964-3540, goletadepot.org.

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Goleta Beach Park, adjacent to UCSB, is favored by families and groups for its expanse of lawn with barbecue and picnic table areas. The 1,500-foot-long pier accommodates boat launching facilities, fishermen and strollers. | Exit Hwy. 217 at Sandspit Rd. 805/568-2461.

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Art, Design & Architecture Museum at UCSB holds an impressive fine art collection with one of the largest architectural archives in North America. In addition, it engages contemporary artists in exhibits and programs. | Wed.–Sun. Noon–5 p.m. 805/8932951, museum.ucsb.edu.

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El Capitan and Refugio State Beaches, the mixed sand and rock beach at El Capitan links Refugio—a palmlined crescent of sand with tide pools—by beach, bluff and bike trails. Both are popular beach campgrounds. | From Hwy. 101, exit the northernmost El Capitan exit and/or Refugio Rd. 805/968-1033, parks.ca.gov.

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Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, the Dunes Center at 1055 Guadalupe St. should be the first stop in the exploration of the largest dune complex in the state. | Wed.–Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 805/343-2455, dunescenter.org.

Santa Ynez Mountains and Valley Areas The valley is historically rich and geographically diverse, with vineyards dotting the landscape, many with tasting rooms.

Tapis, it was the first European settlement in Santa Ynez Valley and still displays artifacts preserved from the Mission era. | 1760 Mission Dr. at Hwy. 246. 805/688-4815, missionsantaines.org.

history of the west and are world-renowned for their vineyards, equestrian culture, art galleries, inns and restaurants that epitomize the region’s signature wine country cuisine.

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Elverhøj Museum of History & Art is housed in a historic handcrafted structure built in a style derived from the large farmhouses of 18th century Denmark. Visitors can view Solvang’s history through photos, artifacts and video displays. | Wed.–Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. 1624 Elverhoy Way. 805/686-1211, elverhoj.org.

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Wildling Art Museum, an educational institution dedicated to presenting art of America’s wilderness, is a place to gain a greater appreciation of art and a better understanding of the importance of preserving our natural heritage. | 1511-B Mission Dr., 805/688-1082, wildlingmuseum.org.

Santa Ynez and Los Olivos These small, charming towns look like they belong in the pages of a book on the

Los Olivos melds California history with modern-day wine tasting rooms, restaurants, art galleries and upscale shops in this picture-perfect country town dating back to the 1860s, when stagecoaches passed through. Centered by an iconic flagpole, the serenity of vineyards, lavender farms, orchards, ranches and horse trails surround Los Olivos. This is a charming place to visit for a one-stop wine country experience. | Approximately 40 min. north of Santa Barbara via Hwy. 154, losolivosca.com.

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Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum celebrates the rich history of the Santa Ynez Valley, its pioneering settlers and the five early townships that formed the foundation of this unique region. | Open Wed.–Sun. noon–4 p.m. 3596 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez. 805/688-7889, santaynezmuseum.org. 

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Cachuma Lake Recreation Area provides 750 campsites just 25 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara.

Full marina, boat launch, rental boats, fishing equipment and licenses are available. Nature cruises led by park naturalists provide an educational look at the wildlife, birds (including bald eagles) and plants that make Cachuma such a rich habitat. | Hwy. 154. 805/686-5055, sbparks.org.

Solvang With a population of nearly 5,000, Solvang (“sunny field” in Danish) is the largest city in Santa Ynez Valley. Founded in 1911 by Danish educators from the Midwest, Solvang is the “Danish Capital of North America.”

35

Solvang Festival Theater, a 700-seat historic outdoor theater, presents excellent productions staged by Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts (PCPA), as well as other concerts and events. Open June through October. | 420 2nd St. 805/686-1789, solvang festivaltheater.org.

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Old Mission Santa Inés is the 19th of 21 missions built in California from 1769 to 1836 by Spanish Franciscan priests.

Founded September 17, 1804 by Padre Estevan

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DAN LEVIN’S LONELY HEARTS / HAND CUT PLAYING CARD DECKS Assemblage Artist Dan Levin’s work was inspired by a chance encounter in 2013 with a vintage deck of worn playing cards. “I’ve always been fascinated by the history of playing cards,” he says. “A few years ago I was trying to incorporate a deck of vintage cards into a sculpture that I was fabricating. I stared at the deck for a while and for some inexplicable reason, began cutting cards, literally. On the first few decks I cut through to the faces of the King or Queen. But after turning the deck over and working with the various patterns on each deck, I cut through to the heart of the deck... the Ace of Hearts... 300+ decks later and I’m still obsessed with card cutting.

For more information, visit danlevin.com.

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4671 La Espada Drive 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | $2,795,000 Nestled in the picturesque Santa Barbara Foothills is “The Highland House”: a meticulously renovated, breathtakingly beautiful home situated on nearly an acre of freshly manicured drought-tolerant landscaping. Enjoy Santa Barbara’s legendary climate year-round with incredible indoor/outdoor living and epic entertaining spaces.

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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.