As sure as the holiday season lays itself out, with traditions, celebrations and fundraising appeals, Santa Barbara’s art season settles into a continuing practice of offering collectors and collectors-in-training small artworks at big savings. Sullivan Goss has filled a gallery with small, affordable pieces in the annual “ 100 Grand ” show — 100 works of art for $1,000 or less — showcasing local artists of varying renown (on view through December 31).
The going gets smaller, and the prices potentially more affordable, in the Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art’s now 12-year-old tradition of the “5x5” exhibition, an auction-based showing of custom pieces created in a 5-inch square format. Launched by ceramic artist and the museum’s curator and collections manager Chris Rupp, this year’s cavalcade attests to the exponential growth of the concept: “5x5: Westmont College Celebrating 85 Years” features no fewer than 680 separate pieces lining the museum’s available walls.
For a best practice viewing of the art, head out to the lush environs of the college, in the hills of Montecito, and the impressive full service ambience of the museum. Wander and gander, up close, and admire the great variety of expressions, mediums and artistic voices, and take note of those with special appeal to your subjective eye. Note pieces worth bidding on, for this art museum’s worthy sake.
