Celebrating a Century: A Grand Story in a Little Pocket Show

This little pocket show will actually tell a big story. Inspired by the 100-year anniversary of Santa Barbara’s Fiesta, this exhibition weaves together both traditional and contemporary painting. At the heart of this body of work is the grand dame, the "Four Nations, One Spirit" painting. This artwork encapsulates California's rich history and serves as the image for Santa Barbara’s Centennial Fiesta poster.

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Be sure to add your name to the list for a first come, first serve sneak preview.

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Four Nations, One Spirit, oil on canvas, 48x36”. Painting for the 100 Year Anniversary Poster for Santa Barbara’s Fiesta. By Holli Harmon.

On view at Sullivan Goss, July 26-August 26, 2024.

Don’t miss it!  It opens July 26th and is gone August 26th!  Drop in while you are enjoying Fiesta. 

Opening Reception

First Thursday, August 1st, 5-8pm. 

Bring your poster for signing!

Traditional Style with a Modern Twist

The large painting for the anniversary Fiesta poster is crafted in a style that is both traditional and reminiscent of the famous illustrators from the early 1920s. From this central piece, all other paintings in the show play with the historic influences that shape our current culture. These little narratives are often tongue-in-cheek and invite viewers to take a second look to uncover deeper meanings. The Four Nations Botanical Garden, creates a landscape where each national flower merges and entwines through pattern, paint and line on 4 panels rimmed with copper.

Four Nations Botanical Garden, oil on (4) 12x36” panels rimmed with copper. By Holli Harmon

The Art of Storytelling Through Sketches

Creating a cohesive narrative involves pulling together many ideas. I start with small sketches of places and subjects to define themes. These sketches, loosely painted in the alla prima style, are little gems that form the foundation for the larger "Four Nations, One Spirit" painting. Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla referred to such sketches as "apuntes," meaning jottings or notes. These were the building blocks for the final narrative for the poster.

Apunte- Flamenco Manilla Shawl, oil on 6x8 panel with stenciled border by Holli Harmon

Read more about it! A sweet write up by Leslie Dinaberg in the Santa Barbara Independent.

I’m looking forward to seeing you during the festivities! Viva la Fiesta! Holli

Oh my word! I've been bursting at the seams, keeping a secret locked away behind closed doors. It's been a challenge! But now, as the anticipation builds and the countdown to Santa Barbara's Fiesta Centennial begins, I can finally let a few whispers escape about the project.

Picture this: El Presidente, Brian Schwabecher approached me to create a painting for none other than the 100-year anniversary of Santa Barbara’s Fiesta. What an honor, right?

Brian had a clear vision, yet also granted me artistic freedom to bring the image to life with one concession, keeping the secret until the big reveal.

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The Big Reveal!

KEYT 6pm News, Thursday May 9th

Tune in to see Fiesta’s 100th Year Anniversary Poster and painting!

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Here’s a hint, just between you and me. Look for the stars in the painting below.

It brought me so much joy to infuse the rich heritage of our First Nation, the Chumash culture, into the design of the Centennial Fiesta poster. As I reflect on the profound beauty of Santa Barbara's Chumash culture, I am forever grateful to Ernestine De Soto, Santa Barbara’s Chumash elder. I am reminded of the deep connection I share with her as a muse for my project, Portraits of the Central Coast and was thrilled she served as the Grand Marshall in last year’s Fiesta.

Ernestine De Soto, Egg Tempera, 2013, Holli Harmon in the collection of Santa Barbara Natural History Museum

Embedded within the Chumash collective memory is a timeless fable known as the Sugar Bear graciously passed down by Ernestine's mother. This portrait of Ernestine  holds metaphorical significance, and serves as a poignant symbol of the enduring spirit of Ernestine and her people.

In my work, Ernestine and the Chumash community are symbolically represented by the the North Star, also known as Ursa Major. In Latin, it means “greater or larger” bear. Just as this star guides travelers through the darkness, this emblem represents the resilience of the Chumash people and illuminates our collective journey, providing guidance and inspiration along the way.

As I continue to work away in my studio, layering meaning into each brush stroke, I invite you to join me on this journey. Share this email with a friend, follow along on Instagram or Facebook, or better yet, send me a note with your thoughts!

With excitement and anticipation,

Holli Harmon