This website preserves the history and legacy of the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild (1965-2015). The guild is no longer active, but its contributions to the sculpture community continue to inspire artists today.
Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild
Celebrating 50 Years of Artistic Legacy
For half a century, the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild served as a vital community resource, encouraging education, enjoyment, and appreciation of sculpture in California.
Preserving a Legacy
The Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild was founded in 1965 by Mrs. Frances Inis, a dedicated Santa Barbara City College Adult Education teacher and sculptor. What began as a small group of artists passionate about three-dimensional art grew into one of the premier sculpture organizations on California's Central Coast.
This archive celebrates the guild's rich history, notable artists, memorable exhibitions, and lasting contributions to the Santa Barbara arts community.
The Guild's Legacy
50 Years of Art
Five decades of promoting sculpture education and appreciation in Santa Barbara
Historic Exhibitions
Annual shows at prestigious venues including the Faulkner Gallery and local museums
Educational Legacy
Workshops, demonstrations, and studio tours that inspired generations of artists
Artist Community
Connected hundreds of sculptors across the Central Coast over five decades
Historical Timeline
Guild Founding
Mrs. Frances Inis, Santa Barbara City College instructor, establishes the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild
Growth Era
Guild expands membership and begins annual exhibitions at the Faulkner Gallery
Community Impact
Educational outreach programs and studio tours become signature events
Golden Years
Peak membership with over 100 active sculptors and multiple annual exhibitions
Our Founder
"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see."
Mrs. Frances Inis, a sculptor and educator at Santa Barbara City College, founded the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild in 1965. Her vision was to create a supportive community where sculptors could share ideas, learn from each other, and promote the appreciation of three-dimensional art.
Under her leadership as the first chair, the guild established traditions that would continue for decades: monthly meetings with guest speakers, annual exhibitions, and educational outreach programs that brought sculpture to the broader community.
Explore the Archive
Discover the rich history, notable artists, and memorable exhibitions that defined the Santa Barbara Sculptors Guild's 50-year legacy.