Myth and Materiality is an art exhibit where you truly grasp the purpose of art to alter consciousness and open a fresh vista of 'seeing'. Each piece gives you a feeling of surprise. Young students were stretched on the floor studying and sketching. A group of young people gathered around several to share the experience of looking, delighting in the... More

We stopped in to see the exhibit "From Van Gogh to Munch" and were surprised to find delightful objects in the permanent collection as well. It's a very manageable museum - the opposite of someplace like MMA. It's right on State Street which is Santa Barbara's main drag for shopping and restaurants. Looking forward to going back again.

Outstanding quality and many many world famous artists represented. Lovely building and gift shop. I love museums of this size--not too overwhelming but many excellent works.

I really liked this museum. It's small but has alot to look at, observe and absorb. We took one of the tours and I really liked it, very informative and our tour guide seemed real friendly and knowledgeable. Would definitely return.

We were delighted to be able to take advantage of the free admission on Thursday evenings from 5-8pm. The museum had two special exhibits that we enjoyed and also viewed some of the permanent collection which was excellent. It is conveniently located in the center of downtown Santa Barbara and within walking distance from our hotel, The Canary. Even though... More

The Santa Barbara Art Museum is a wonderful smaller sized museum. It has an outstanding permanent collection (especially the drawings/works on paper, paintings by Rouault, paintings by Monet - "Villas à Bordighera" is one of my favorites, and the other amazing works found in their endowment rooms) The museum is large enough to attract a wondrous line up of visiting... More

We've been in countless museums and would have headed to the beach, but a rainy Easter morning brought us to the museum. Not only were we grateful that they were open on Easter, but so pleased with what was there. Lovely entry to the museum with Roman sculptures. And then a wonderful exhibit of European Masters. Other areas pleasantly filled... More

This is a small museum, and you don't need a lot of time to see it all. But there's a good variety of different types of art from different eras.

It is not so large as the 'big city' museums (LACMA, MOMA, MOCA, etc) but its collection and exhibitions are first class in every respect. Over the years of visiting, I have seen many world class exhibits here which somehow by-passed the 'big' museums. Every visit has been repaid a thousandfold.