Downtown Window Beautification Program Showcases Local Art

The Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA), in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture, the Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative, and Santa Barbara Signs, has launched an ongoing initiative, the Vacant Window Beautification Program, designed to transform vacant storefronts along State Street into vibrant displays of local art. Developed in collaboration with community partners including the Historic Landmark Commission, PIP Printing, and graphic designer Irene Ramirez, several installations are already in place, with additional displays planned over time.

Launched in 2025 with a Call for Artists, the program invites Santa Barbara County–based artists to submit original digital artwork for consideration. Selected pieces are custom-formatted and printed on window film to fit the unique dimensions of vacant storefronts, transforming empty windows into eye-catching displays that highlight local creativity while presenting spaces as active and ready for new business opportunities.

Installations can already be seen along State Street, offering residents and visitors large-scale art displays as they explore downtown. Additional installations will continue to be added over time as more storefronts participate, demonstrating how creative placemaking can activate underused spaces while supporting the local arts community and downtown vitality.

For more information, visit DSBIA Downtown Window Beautification Program.