Artists and Artwork at Sundial Studios in Santa Barbara
“Some of our people show their work in galleries, as well. It’s lovely to see their artistic talents grow.” (805-782-8890.)
produce imaginative and compelling work, competing in juried shows. Alpha opened SlingShot with confidence in the potential for artistic growth, recognition and financial gain for their unique artists. SlingShot is participating in Santa Barbara’s 1st Thursday Art Walk every month at their 220 W. Canon Perdido Street location. PathPoint’s Community Access Programs provide a wide range of activities for the people they serve. An adaptive arts program enables individuals to enhance their skills and create remarkable contemporary pieces in a nurturing, inclusive studio environment. “PathPoint provides the supports necessary to allow people with disabilities to gain self-confidence and express their whole selves,” states Alana Walczak, Vice-President of Santa Barbara County. Artist Sue Ann Fredericks says, “I like it when I sell a painting. Sometimes my work makes someone smile, and then I smile too.” Visitors are welcome to view the art on display or visit the working art studio in downtown Santa Barbara any weekday by appointment (805-961-9200). PathPoint also supports art programs in San Luis Obispo and Atascadero. Artists produce original paintings, drawings, cards and magnets. This year, all of the artists submitted work in the Paso Robles Fair. An annual benefit art show and reception is held the first weekend of December, where artists show their work and receive 50% of sales. The remainder goes to support the program. “We have a lot of fun,” remarked Laura Brown, Supportive Services Assistant Coordinator.
UCP Work Inc.’s Sundial Studios is located in Santa Barbara’s artsy Funk Zone. Manager Michael Craig explains, “This is a stand-alone business. UCP Work Inc. offers art classes through their day program, but this studio is open to all community members. It’s a community-integrated program. There is also a Sundial North in Santa Maria. It’s part of the UPC Work Inc. day program. We show their work in our gallery.” Michael continues, “We have people with disabilities employed in the crew here. They earn an hourly wage and are enhancing their work skills. We’re hoping to add as many more work opportunities as possible; running the gallery, even doing wine tastings… we’re always looking for volunteers, instructors and artists. We collaborate with community artists as well.” Artists work in a variety of media at Sundial, including painting, beading and jewelry making, sculpture, lapidary, ceramics and performance art. Upcoming events include Second Friday Funk Zone Art Walk and fairly regular First Thursday events. A shuttle brings art visitors to the gallery from State Street near the Granada Theatre. Artists currently featured at Sundial include Kyle Allan, who makes popular drawings with images of the Santa Barbara Mission, sometimes in unusual situations… for example, riding on a flatbed truck. His work was featured recently in a Carpinteria Arts Association’ show. Kyle has recently expanded his work to use of clay tiles. Brian Raleigh paints at the studio regularly. His work was featured on the gallery’s latest brochure. Others work in a variety of mediums. There are regular receptions to sell the ceramics, paintings, cards and jewelry that the artists produce. (www.sundialstudio.org). These art industry incubators throughout the region share in kindling creativity with beautiful results. For art that moves the heart and spirit, these galleries deserve a lingering visit. Summer 2015 | TriLine | 5