"Our rooms should be a place to show off individuality, a place to dream and refresh, protected from all the theatrics of the outside world." 
--  Colette Cosentino

The art of Colette Cosentino drifts between worlds —
where fields shimmer in abstraction, and skies murmur secrets only the soul can hear.

Her work is rooted in the sublime:
that delicate tension between wonder and unease, serenity and the storm beneath.

Her paintings honor the unseen life within us —
the quiet depths of feeling, the landscapes of the imagination and memory.
The longing of the soul.

In her hands, nature becomes a mirror —
ever shifting, deeply personal, and infinitely mysterious, as is life itself.

Time presses forward with a disquieting hum.
The world is changing—so fast, and so far.

Colette's view is that in this era of vanishing stillness and relentless invention,
we must grasp—and have faith in—the sacred, the wild, the real,
and what is spiritually true.

In the pursuit of a creative life, one must embrace risk-taking, have faith, and bravely exposetheir heart and passion to the world. Sharing one's creations is a vulnerable endeavor, with the hope that others will not only connect with the work but also embrace it as their own, integrating it into their lives and environments.

My artistic journey is deeply rooted in childhood experiences and observations. Growing up in the rural landscapes of Iowa, I absorbed the diverse influences brought by my parents' worldly friendships. Memories of intricate handcrafted items from various cultures, like the rich purple hues of an embroidered sari or the elaborate motifs adorning artifacts from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, left an indelible mark on my subconscious.

My formal education at the Art Institute of Colorado in Denver laid the foundation for my exploration into graphic design and illustration. However, it was my move to Santa Barbara, California, that truly ignited my creative spirit. Surrounded by the stunning architecture, landscapes, and the eclectic community of Santa Barbara, I found boundless inspiration.

In 2018, I realized a lifelong dream by opening my own art studio and gallery in the vibrant arts district, just a stone's throw away from the esteemed Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Nestled within an architectural gem, my studio has become a haven for creativity to flourish.

Every day, I revel in the process of bringing my visions to life, whether through large-scale paintings or intricate projects. My studio is a sanctuary where I can freely explore and create, surrounded by an array of artful treasures, from paintings to ceramics to vintage finds.

Sharing this journey with my husband, fellow artist Peter Horjus, who runs his own shop nearby, has been a source of immense joy and camaraderie. Together, we recently welcomed a playful kitten into our lives, who now happily resides in my studio, adding an extra dose of charm to our creative haven.

In this ever-evolving adventure, my aim is to offer a unique and soulful experience to those who seek art that resonates deeply and captivates the imagination. Each brushstroke, each creation, is infused with love and passion, inviting others to embark on a journey of discovery and delight.

Thank you for coming along on the journey, Colette