Santa Barbara County earned more than $250,000 from the state for its efforts in engaging the creative community.
California acknowledged the county’s Office of Arts and Culture with the highest possible ranking in the 2026 State-Local Partnership program. For the past five years, Santa Barbara County has topped the charts compared to other arts agencies. It tied with Sonoma County for the highest average marks, according to a county press release.
Sarah York Rubin, the executive director of the county Office of Arts and Culture, said that maintaining a strong relationship with the state is important.
“It connects our communities with resources and opportunities that extend well beyond this individual grant,” the director said in press materials. “This recognition is really meaningful because it reflects the work of our staff, commissioners, and partners to make those resources accessible throughout the region.”
The state judged agencies on equity, accessibility, programming, community engagement, organizational management, and social impact. More than $250,000 was distributed to local organizations, including Youth Arts Alive and the Lompoc Valley Art Association, according to the county.
The Office of Arts and Culture provides grants, professional trainings, public policy development, and gallery spaces for the community.
Pictured are artists from Corazón del Pueblo at the county’s Channing Peake Gallery during an exhibition in Santa Barbara.
Visit sbac.ca.gov to learn more.
This article appears in October 29 – November 5, 2026.
