The Swiftest Recovery, Island Fox Chronicles - Photography by Chuck Graham

SBMM is proud to present The Swiftest Recovery, Island Fox Chronicles – Photography by Chuck Graham taking place from May 22, 2025 to August 24, 2025. The island fox’s recovery is the fastest of any terrestrial mammal under the Endangered Species Act, making it a powerf......More

SBMM is proud to present The Swiftest Recovery, Island Fox Chronicles – Photography by Chuck Graham taking place from May 22, 2025 to August 24, 2025. The island fox’s recovery is the fastest of any terrestrial mammal under the Endangered Species Act, making it a powerful symbol of successful conservation efforts. The exhibition will feature captivating images taken by Graham paddling across the Santa Barbara Channel and around the Northern Chain of the Channel Islands National Park. Each photograph offers a glimpse into the resilience and beauty of these unique creatures and the critical role they play in the island’s ecosystem. “This collection of photographs is not just about the island foxes it’s about the incredible story of conservation and collaboration that brought these animals back from the brink of extinction,” said SBMM Curator Emily Falke. “Visitors will walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the island foxes and the importance of protecting our natural world.” Chuck Graham’s distinctive photographic style combines quiet observation with an immersive presence in nature. Whether shooting from a kayak, hiking through remote terrain, or quietly waiting in the brush, Graham uses natural light, patience, and perspective to capture the intimate, unscripted moments of wildlife in their natural environments. His images are rich with texture, emotion, and a deep reverence for wild places. “I wanted to document not just the island fox, but its environment and the urgency of preserving it,” said Chuck Graham. “These photos are about presence—being in the fox’s world without disturbing it. The more time I spent with them, the more I realized their story is one of survival, interdependence, and the quiet strength of nature when we step back and let it heal.” Exhibition Details: Title: The Swiftest Recovery: Island Fox ChroniclesPhotographer: Chuck GrahamDates: May 22, 2025 – August 24, 2025Location: Santa Barbara Maritime MuseumExhibition Features: stunning photographs of island foxes captured on Santa Cruz IslandAbout the Photographer: Chuck Graham is a seasoned environmentalist, outdoor guide, and photographer with a deep connection to the natural world. His work has been featured in various national publications and he is known for his ability to capture the spirit of wild places and the creatures that inhabit them. Through his lens, Graham brings the story of the island fox to life, showcasing the significance of preserving such a delicate ecosystem. Conservation Triumph: The exhibition not only celebrates the island fox but also highlights the collaborative efforts between multiple conservation entities that ensured the survival of this species. The restoration of habitat across the Channel Islands National Park, where these foxes reside, represents a monumental achievement in wildlife conservation. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of nature when given a chance to heal. The exhibition is generously supported by: Mimi Michaelis, George H. and Olive J. Griffiths Charitable Foundation, June G. Outhwaite Charitable Trust, Wood-Claeyssens Foundation and the American Riviera Bank.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA, 93109, United States

Into the Blue: Exploring the Marine Abundance of the Santa Barbara Channel Through the Lens of Adam Ernster

SBMM is proud to welcome Adam Ernster, wildlife cameraman and naturalist, to its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. His talk, titled “Marine Diversity & Abundances throughout the Santa Barbara Channel,” will showcase the ext......More

SBMM is proud to welcome Adam Ernster, wildlife cameraman and naturalist, to its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. His talk, titled “Marine Diversity & Abundances throughout the Santa Barbara Channel,” will showcase the extraordinary marine biodiversity found just off our coast and highlight the critical role the Channel plays in global ocean ecosystems.The event includes a pre-lecture reception for SBMM members only from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. Free for Navigators Circle members, $10 for SBMM members, $20 for the general public, and just $5 for students and educators with a valid school ID or email address. Purchase tickets below or call (805) 456-8750. Register Today For the past eight years, Ernster has worked in the Santa Barbara Channel as a captain, wildlife naturalist, and award-winning cameraman. During this time, he has documented incredible scenes—from blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, to vast pods of dolphins stretching across the horizon. His presentation will explore how the region’s rare convergence of ocean currents, seasonal temperatures, and island geography creates ideal conditions for marine megafauna to flourish. “The Santa Barbara Channel is a truly wild place,” said Ernster. “Its richness and abundance never cease to amaze me. Each trip out feels like entering a different world—and I’m honored to share that world with others.” This event offers attendees a rare and immersive glimpse into one of the most ecologically significant marine environments on the planet. Ernster’s talk will be accompanied by breathtaking visuals and personal stories, shedding light on what makes the Channel so biologically productive—and why it must be protected. “Adam’s work captures the essence of what we strive to teach at SBMM—that the Santa Barbara Channel is not only beautiful, but globally significant,” said SBMM Executive Director Greg Gorga. “His stunning footage and storytelling remind us why protecting this region is so important—especially as we celebrate 25 years of connecting people to the ocean.” “This is a rare opportunity for our community to experience the Channel through the eyes of someone who has explored its wonders day in and day out,” added SBMM Director of Education Lis Perry. “Adam’s presentation will engage both the heart and the mind, and we hope it inspires more people to learn about and care for our coastal environment.” About the Speaker:Adam Ernster is a professional wildlife cameraman specializing in marine life, with an emphasis on whales, dolphins, and sharks. His work has taken him from the Pacific Northwest to the waters of Baja California, capturing powerful stories from our planet’s oceans. A graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a degree in environmental science, Ernster’s footage has appeared in acclaimed productions by PBS, National Geographic, and the BBC. His mission is to inspire awe and stewardship by connecting people to the ocean’s wonders. The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information about visiting the museum, please visit sbmm.org or call (805) 962-8404. Most individuals attending the lecture will be able to find seats on the main floor. When overflow seating becomes necessary due to larger than normal attendance, guests are invited to view the lecture from the museum’s Munger Theater. All lecture seating is first come, first served. SBMM members are invited to enjoy a pre-lecture reception from 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., which provides early access to the event. Learn more about becoming a member. The Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L Morrisroe.

Tiles on Deck ~ Mah Jongg at the Maritime Museum

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Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara, CA, 93109, United States

SBMM Book Club

Join the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Monthly Book Club! Monthly selections are (of course!) related to maritime adventures, history, marine science, ships, and sailing. Members meet the second Thursday of each month in the Harbor Community Room in the museum buildin......More

Join the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Monthly Book Club! Monthly selections are (of course!) related to maritime adventures, history, marine science, ships, and sailing. Members meet the second Thursday of each month in the Harbor Community Room in the museum building. For more information or to find out the current monthly book being read, please contact John Jeffryes at [email protected].

Museum Closes at 3:00 p.m.

Museum open 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Thank you for understanding.

Redwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests by Photographer Ralph A. Clevenger

Dive into Santa Barbara Channel Island Kelp Forests Through Ralph A. Clevenger’s Photography SBMM is proud to announce the upcoming exhibition Redwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests featuring the extraordinary photography of renowned naturalist an......More

Dive into Santa Barbara Channel Island Kelp Forests Through Ralph A. Clevenger’s Photography SBMM is proud to announce the upcoming exhibition Redwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests featuring the extraordinary photography of renowned naturalist and underwater photographer Ralph A. Clevenger. The exhibition opens on September 11, 2025 and will be on view through January 4, 2026. Imagine swimming through a swaying forest where shafts of sunlight flicker across the seafloor and schools of fish weave through a towering underwater landscape. This vibrant, thriving world—one of the most productive and diverse ecosystems on Earth—comes to life in Clevenger’s breathtaking images of the giant kelp forests surrounding the Santa Barbara Channel Islands. Giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) can grow up to two feet a day, reaching lengths of over 100 feet. These towering marine forests protect our coastline from erosion, provide vital habitat for nearly a thousand species of plants and animals, and play a crucial role in sequestering millions of tons of carbon each year. Kelp forests even contribute to everyday products like ice cream and cosmetics. However, this critical ecosystem is under threat. Rising ocean temperatures and an explosion of sea urchin populations have led to a devastating 95 percent loss of kelp along some stretches of the California coast. Clevenger’s work not only celebrates the extraordinary beauty of these marine forests but also underscores the urgent need for conservation. “Ralph Clevenger’s photography immerses viewers in the vibrant underwater world of our local kelp forests,” said SBMM Curator Emily Falke. “His images not only showcase the stunning beauty of these marine ecosystems but also highlight the urgent need for their conservation. We hope this exhibition inspires a deeper appreciation and commitment to protecting our ocean’s vital habitats.” Through Marine Protected Areas and collaborative restoration efforts, there is hope for the recovery and resilience of these vital undersea ecosystems. “Our kelp forests are not just beautiful—they are essential to life along our coast,” says Clevenger. “Through these images, I hope to inspire people to appreciate and protect one of the planet’s most extraordinary and endangered habitats.” About the Photographer: Ralph A. Clevenger Ralph A. Clevenger grew up on the coast of North Africa, where he began diving at the age of seven with his father. Deeply influenced by the films of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Clevenger pursued a career in marine biology, working as a diver/biologist for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography before transitioning into professional photography. He later attended the Brooks Institute of Photography, where he spent 33 years as a senior faculty member teaching natural history and underwater photography. Based in Santa Barbara, Clevenger has traveled extensively throughout the world, capturing images in Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Alaska, and beyond. Now retired from commercial photography, he focuses his work on supporting environmental and social causes close to his heart. He is also the author of Photographing Nature, published by New Riders. Clevenger’s photography continues to educate, inspire, and deepen the connection between people and the natural world—both above and beneath the surface.  

Redwoods of the Sea Art Opening-Members Only

Dive into Santa Barbara Channel Island Kelp Forests Through Ralph A. Clevenger’s PhotographyRedwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests will be on view from September 11, 2025 – January 4, 2026SBMM is proud to announce the upcoming exhibition Redwoods ......More

Dive into Santa Barbara Channel Island Kelp Forests Through Ralph A. Clevenger’s PhotographyRedwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests will be on view from September 11, 2025 – January 4, 2026SBMM is proud to announce the upcoming exhibition Redwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp Forests featuring the extraordinary photography of renowned naturalist and underwater photographer Ralph A. Clevenger.Imagine swimming through a swaying forest where shafts of sunlight flicker across the seafloor and schools of fish weave through a towering underwater landscape. This vibrant, thriving world—one of the most productive and diverse ecosystems on Earth—comes to life in Clevenger’s breathtaking images of the giant kelp forests surrounding the Santa Barbara Channel Islands.Giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) can grow up to two feet a day, reaching lengths of over 100 feet. These towering marine forests protect our coastline from erosion, provide vital habitat for nearly a thousand species of plants and animals, and play a crucial role in sequestering millions of tons of carbon each year. Kelp forests even contribute to everyday products like ice cream and cosmetics.However, this critical ecosystem is under threat. Rising ocean temperatures and an explosion of sea urchin populations have led to a devastating 95 percent loss of kelp along some stretches of the California coast. Clevenger’s work not only celebrates the extraordinary beauty of these marine forests but also underscores the urgent need for conservation.“Ralph Clevenger’s photography immerses viewers in the vibrant underwater world of our local kelp forests,” said SBMM Curator Emily Falke. “His images not only showcase the stunning beauty of these marine ecosystems but also highlight the urgent need for their conservation. We hope this exhibition inspires a deeper appreciation and commitment to protecting our ocean’s vital habitats.” Through Marine Protected Areas and collaborative restoration efforts, there is hope for the recovery and resilience of these vital undersea ecosystems.“Our kelp forests are not just beautiful—they are essential to life along our coast,” says Clevenger. “Through these images, I hope to inspire people to appreciate and protect one of the planet’s most extraordinary and endangered habitats.”________________________________________About the Photographer: Ralph A. ClevengerRalph A. Clevenger grew up on the coast of North Africa, where he began diving at the age of seven with his father. Deeply influenced by the films of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Clevenger pursued a career in marine biology, working as a diver/biologist for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography before transitioning into professional photography.He later attended the Brooks Institute of Photography, where he spent 33 years as a senior faculty member teaching natural history and underwater photography.Based in Santa Barbara, Clevenger has traveled extensively throughout the world, capturing images in Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Alaska, and beyond. Now retired from commercial photography, he focuses his work on supporting environmental and social causes close to his heart. He is also the author of Photographing Nature, published by New Riders.Clevenger’s photography continues to educate, inspire, and deepen the connection between people and the natural world—both above and beneath the surface.________________________________________Exhibition Details:Exhibition Title: Redwoods of the Sea: Life in the Channel Islands Kelp ForestsPhotographer: Ralph A. ClevengerDates: September 11, 2025 – January 4, 2026Location: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93109More Info: sbmm.org | (805) 962-8404

Mermaids, Mayhem & Million-Dollar Movies: The Silent Film Era of the Channel Islands

SBMM is pleased to welcome local historian and author Betsy J. Green for a special presentation titled “Silents on the Islands” on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. as part of its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series. The event includes a pre-lecture reception ......More

SBMM is pleased to welcome local historian and author Betsy J. Green for a special presentation titled “Silents on the Islands” on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. as part of its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series. The event includes a pre-lecture reception for SBMM members only from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. Free for Navigators Circle members, $10 for SBMM members, $20 for the general public, and just $5 for students and educators with a valid school ID or email address. Purchase tickets below or call (805) 456-8750. Register Today The Channel Islands, with their natural beauty and dramatic shorelines, once served as the backdrop for more than 250 silent films. These early cinematic adventures featured legendary stars like Gloria Swanson, Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Buster Keaton, and Laurel & Hardy. From five-minute beachside reels to million-dollar epics with casts of thousands, the islands offered the perfect setting for tales of pirates, shipwrecks, mermaids, and high-seas adventure. “Watching silent movies is a form of time travel,” says Green. “You see the people, the buildings, the transportation—and our coastline—just as it was 100 years ago.” Betsy J. Green has been a professional writer for more than 25 years. She is the author of The Way Back When series and currently pens The Great House Detective column for The Santa Barbara Independent, uncovering stories of local homes and the people who lived in them. A former editor for Reader’s Digest and World Book Encyclopedia, she has also researched the histories of more than 85 homes and nominated five to the National Register of Historic Places. “Betsy’s research brings a vivid new perspective to Santa Barbara’s connection to early Hollywood,” said Director of Education Lis Perry. “Her storytelling shows how our coastal environment played a starring role in shaping film history.” Green has given engaging presentations throughout the community at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Genealogy Society, Santa Barbara Yacht Club, Rotary clubs, and more. SBMM is honored to welcome her back for this fascinating exploration of film, history, and our island shore. SBMM’s Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series brings leading authors, historians, scientists, and adventurers to the museum to share compelling stories connected to our region and the sea. Event DetailsWhat: Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series – “Silents on the Island” with Betsy J. GreenWhen: Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 7:00 p.m. (Reception for SBMM members only at 6:15 p.m.)Where: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CATickets: $20 general | $5 for students and educators with a valid school ID or email address | $10 SBMM Members | Free for Navigators Circle members. Purchase tickets or call (805) 456-8750