The American Institute of Architects Santa Barbara has announced its 11th annual ArchitecTours event, 10a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 5, will celebrate the intersection of art and architecture.

Art can be found in architecture throughout the community. It bridges old and new architectural styles, and transcends time. It can take the form of artistically designed buildings that, in and of themselves, are considered art pieces, as well as homes that showcase fabulous art collections.

Community members are invited to join the tour, which will explore nine exceptional projects illustrating the diversity of art and architecture from Montecito to Goleta.

Whether architecture is a form of art or not has often been a topic of conversation within the architecture world. As anyone involved in the architectural discipline knows, there is an abundance of definitions of the word architecture; whether its primary purpose is to achieve beauty or to organize space is up for discussion.

Jay A. Pritzker, founder of the Pritzker Prize, has said: “Architecture is intended to transcend the simple need for shelter and security by becoming an expression of artistry.”

“The art of architecture is what humanizes it, brings it to people and relates it to our lives,” said architect Frank Gehry recently. “It’s not just bricks and mortar; it is potentially uplifting, inviting and intellectually stimulating.”

This is part of what makes the field of architecture both challenging and exciting.

The tour will conclude with a party, 4-6 p.m. at SBCAST.

Early bird ticket discount is available through September 16. Ticket prices after Sept. 16 are $70 for AIA members and seniors, general tickets $80, students $25.

Five percent of ticket sales will be given to ACE Mentor Program, which helps mentor high school students and inspires them to pursue careers in architecture, construction and engineering.

For more information, visit aiasb.com or call 805-966-4198.

ArchitecTours is an annual celebration of local architecture and cultural identity. Projects on the tour showcase the design and depth of knowledge of AIA architects. The self-guided tour offers an opportunity for a behind-the-scenes look at exceptional properties.

ArchitecTours sponsors are Corinthian: Allen Construction, Cyber Copy; Ionic: Tangram Interiors, Taylor & Syfan Consulting Engineers, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, Young Construction, Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara, Ann Kale Associates; Doric: 805 Living, Visit Santa Barbara, Insulate SB, Van Sande Structural Consultants, Ashley & Vance Engineering, Inc., Bristol Property Management, Kitchell Custom Homes; Tuscan: 19six Architects.

— Tara Rizzi for American Institute of Architects, Santa Barbara Chapter.