SB Funk Zone Live, a series of bimonthly arts, wine, dine, and shop events, will host its next event 5-8 p.m. July 26.

SB Funk Zone Live started on March 29 supports locally owned Funk Zone businesses that open their doors late, 5-8 p.m. the last Fridays of every other month (November’s event is swapped to December due to the holiday season).

Having become a successful collaborative business model, Funk Zone Live has 25 venues participating. The business owners agree to refer each other and the public to each other’s shops.

At the group’s monthly meeting in July, hosted by Rinocon Brewery, owner Luisa Hyatt and her manager shared bites and beer tastes so everyone could talk up the offerings and send customers over to the brewery on the corner of Santa Barbara and Yanonali streets.

Kelly Clause, the newest artist to participate in Funk Zone Live (her gallery/studio is at 28 Anacapa St.), was showing off a handcrafted necklace she bought from Jules at Jules By the Sea in the 121 Santa Barbara Quansit Hut. 

“I love to see the mutual support and cooperation of the Funk Zone business owners,” said Jana Brody, coordinator of SB Funk Zone Live. “This is a unique community based on shared passions and entrepreneurialism.

“Meeting monthly at different spaces we all get a first-hand personal experience. Creative ideas and good news are shared. Everyone is wishing everyone well here. Parker Simon of Tendrel even got hugs for his new baby and the new location on 223 Anacapa St.”

Shared resources are key. Erica Brown of Dylan Star, 110 Anacapa St., offered to create an Instagram Prize Giveaway promotion to draw more attention to the July 26 event.

SB Funk Zone Live is billed as an eclectic experience suitable for all ages. Each registered venue will feature an art element; non-art venues are encouraged to host a local artist or band.

Upcoming SB Funk Zone Live series dates are July 26, Sept. 27, and Dec. 6.

To learn more, contact Brody, 805-448-6873.