Introducing the Wildling Museum of Art and Nature

Just 45 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, in the picturesque village of Solvang, sits The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature, founded in 1997 by Santa Barbara artist Patti Jacquemain. She felt that a museum showcasing the beautiful art of wilderness areas could help educate and inspire new audiences to care about the preservation of our country’s dwindling natural areas.
Permanent Collection
The museum features a small permanent collection (105 pieces), ranging from large-scale historic paintings to abstract bronze sculptures. There’s also an exciting new permanent feature at the museum. Last July, artist John Iwerks began creating a mural depicting a Valley Oak habitat, one of the most iconic natural features of the Santa Ynez Valley. Amidst the tree will be a variety of local animals: mule deer, owls, magpies, red-tailed hawks and much more. The 8′ by 10′ mural will be a permanent feature of the second floor gallery and launches a new endeavor to create a gallery that focuses on the Santa Barbara region. The first floor gallery will remain an art space that features a variety of nature art from a wide geographic scope.
Exhibits
Now through October 3, visitors can enjoy Celebrating the National Parks of California, an exhibit that explores nine national parks located within the state: Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Redwood, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Lassen, Pinnacles, Death Valley and Channel Islands.  The show celebrates and discusses wilderness, nature and preservation of the parks and provides an opportunity for artists to display and sell their work. Fifty-one artworks in a wide range of mediums and styles are included in the diverse show, which showcases works by 42 artists from 5 different states.  The exhibition was timed to also bring awareness to the Centennial of the National Park Services system. Upcoming exhibits include Places of the Heart and Natural Materials: Fallen Trees, Local Artisans.
Solvang
The museum is located at 1511 Mission Dr. in Solvang. While you’re in the village, be sure to check out the Santa Barbara County wine country wine tasting opportunities. You can also enjoy horse-drawn trolley rides, boutique shopping, surrey bike rides and country road cycling and walking through the Historic Danish Village.
The Wilding Museum of Art and Nature is just one of the many cultural activities Santa Barbara residents can enjoy every day of the year. Sound good? It is! Having all of these opportunities within less than an hour’s drive is a true blessing. If you want to join those of us fortunate enough to live here, or if you are already one of us and are considering moving to, or within, Montecito, Hope Ranch or any of Santa Barbara’s upscale communities, I’m here to help. Please take a look at my comprehensive website then call me at 805.886.9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.