Art & Soul does not feel like the kind of gallery where you quietly step in, glance at the walls and leave a few minutes later.
From the moment you walk through Art & Soul’s doors at 1323 State St. in downtown Santa Barbara, there is a sense that this space was created for conversation, connection and curiosity.
Opened in 2023, Art & Soul is a contemporary gallery owned by Kim McIntyre and run alongside her daughter, Bella DiBernardo, making it a true mother-daughter business.
The idea for Art & Soul was sparked far from Santa Barbara, in Ogunquit, Maine, where a colorful gift gallery owned by a family friend left a lasting impression.
That space in the Atlantic seaside resort village planted the seed for something similar on the Central Coast, though the vision evolved quickly once the gallery opened.
What began as a gift-focused concept soon shifted toward something more intentional.
“We wanted to create more than a gallery,” McIntyre said. “We wanted a place where people feel welcome, inspired and connected to the artists, to each other and to creativity itself.
“Community has always been at the heart of Art & Soul.”
That philosophy is evident throughout the space. Rather than focusing solely on selling art, Art & Soul prioritizes storytelling and meaningful engagement.
Visitors are encouraged to slow down, ask questions, and spend time with the work in a way that feels personal rather than formal or intimidating.
Art & Soul represents a carefully curated mix of established and emerging contemporary artists, with fresh exhibitions rotating each month.
The styles and mediums vary, but there is a clear throughline in how artists are selected. Authenticity is key.
“We look for authenticity above all else,” McIntyre explained. “Every artist we feature has a story, a perspective, and a voice that deserves to be heard, and that’s what makes each exhibition unique.
“We’re drawn to artists who have something honest and meaningful to say through their work.”
Many artists find their way to the gallery organically through community connections and ongoing dialogue, reinforcing Art & Soul’s role as a welcoming hub rather than a traditional gatekeeping space.
The intentionally diverse exhibition calendar gives visitors a reason to return again and again.
“Our calendar is intentionally diverse,” McIntyre said. “We love offering something new every month so visitors can continually discover different styles, ideas and creative approaches.”
What truly sets Art & Soul apart is its interdisciplinary approach. Visual art is blended with experiences such as wine pairings, philanthropic collaborations, workshops, panel discussions and community gatherings.
“We believe art is meant to be experienced, not just observed,” McIntyre said. “By pairing exhibitions with wine tastings, philanthropic collaborations, workshops and social events, we create moments where people can really connect with the art and with each other, breaking down barriers and making art feel accessible and personal.”
These experiences invite guests to engage directly with artists, support local causes and form connections that extend beyond a single visit. Art becomes something lived and shared rather than simply viewed.
Each exhibition leaves its own imprint, but for McIntyre, the most meaningful moments often happen after the crowds thin out.
“Every show tells a story, and the most meaningful ones are those that bring people together and spark conversation long after they leave.”
Kim McIntyre, Art & soul owner
They appear when visitors return repeatedly to sit with a piece that resonated with them, or when an artist stands in the gallery, witnessing firsthand how their work moves others.
“Every show tells a story, and the most meaningful ones are those that bring people together and spark conversation long after they leave,” she said.
At the heart of Art & Soul is its family foundation. DiBernardo, now 18, has been deeply involved in every aspect of the gallery from the beginning and is an emerging artist in her own right.
Her presence adds a youthful perspective and reinforces the gallery’s commitment to nurturing new voices.
Being part of Santa Barbara’s creative ecosystem is something the Art & Soul team values deeply.
“Santa Barbara has such a rich and supportive arts scene,” McIntyre said. “We feel incredibly grateful to be part of it and to help showcase the talent that exists right here.”
