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THE RIDLEY-TREES: EXEMPLIFYING PHILANTHROPIC IMPACT AT THE SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART

July 22, 2024

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By Guest Blogger Susan Hartzler

For more than two decades, Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree and her husband, Lord Paul Ridley-Tree, were stalwart supporters of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA), leaving an indelible mark through their unwavering philanthropy. Lady Leslie, who passed away two years ago at the age of 98, dedicated herself to enriching the cultural fabric of Santa Barbara. Her legacy is now commemorated in a special exhibition titled "A Legacy of Giving," showcasing thirty 19th-century artworks donated by the Ridley-Trees. This exhibition, running through November 3, not only honors their contributions but also explores themes that resonate deeply in the 21st century.


A painting from 1865 depicting two women surrounding one man with musical instruments.
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, The Merciless Lady, 1865. Watercolor and bodycolor on paper. Bequest of Leslie L. Ridley-Tree, 2023.25.30.

Leslie Ridley-Tree - A Legacy Beyond the Boardroom

Leslie Ridley-Tree's impact on the SBMA is both profound and multifaceted. Serving on the board of trustees for 15 years and as board president from 1994 to 1996, she became a life honorary trustee in 2014; a display of her enduring commitment to culture in our fine city. But, her vision extended beyond boardroom decisions. She was a pivotal figure in the museum's extensive renovation, completed in 2021, which revitalized its facilities and expanded its capacity to engage with the community. Her support also made possible landmark exhibitions such as "Eternal China, Splendors from the First Dynasties" in 1998 and "Botticelli, Titian and Beyond: Masterpieces of Italian Painting from Glasgow Museums" in 2015 -- enriching the cultural landscape of Santa Barbara.

The facade of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, illuminated from within, and with a tree in the foreground.
Courtesy of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Dedicated to Education in the Arts

For more than a quarter-century, the Ridley-Tree dynamic duo provided generous support to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, aligning with its mission to integrate art into people's lives. Recognizing the importance of expanding the museum's collection, they facilitated the acquisition of 58 artworks through direct donations or partial funding. A significant portion of these acquisitions, including a recent bequest from Leslie Ridley-Tree, enriches the museum's holdings today.

Her dedication to educating the public about the arts was central to Leslie Ridley-Tree's philanthropic efforts. The current exhibition utilizes the collection as educational resources to explore a tumultuous century marked by rapid technological advancements and cultural shifts that continue to shape contemporary society, encouraging broader perspectives and critical thinking. In addition, The Ridley-Tree Education Center at McCormick is an example of this commitment, providing a dedicated space for art classes and camp programs that nurture creativity among Santa Barbara's youth.

An oil painting called the Riverbank in yellows, greens and blues from 1889
Paul Signac, Herblay – The Riverbank (op. 204), 1889. Oil on canvas. Gift of Lord and Lady Ridley-Tree, 2001.65


“A Legacy of Giving”

The exhibition "A Legacy of Giving" is not just a showcase of artworks, but is a celebration of the Ridley-Trees' profound impact on the SBMA and the broader community. This exhibition features some of the couple’s gifts, primarily nineteenth-century British and French paintings. It contains artworks by luminaries such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Mary Cassatt, and Claude Monet, Charles François Daubigny, Narcisse Diaz de la Peña, Charles Émile Jacque, Francois Auguste Ortmans, and Théodore Rousseau. The collection on display captivates and enriches the viewer's understanding of art and nature by bridging the past with the present through its timeless beauty and historical significance.

A serene oil paiting from 1853 with a pond in the front surrounded by trees and a cloudy blue sky.
Charles-François Daubigny, The Pond at Gylieu, c. 1853. Oil on canvas. SBMA, Bequest of Leslie L. Ridley-Tree.

Partners in Community Support

In keeping with Leslie and Paul Ridley-Tree's spirit of community support, the SBMA has partnered with local organizations that benefited from their generosity. Collaborations with institutions such as Lotusland, the Music Academy of the West, Opera Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Symphony, and the Santa Barbara Zoo underscore the Ridley-Trees' broad philanthropic reach and enduring legacy.

Don’t Miss This Exhibit

As "A Legacy of Giving" serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of philanthropy and the enduring legacy of those who dedicate themselves to enhancing the lives of others through art and culture. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the Ridley-Trees' profound impact to our coastal hamlet. It encourages continued support for the arts, ensuring that Santa Barbara remains a hub of creativity and inspiration for generations to come.

Cristal Clarke Follows Leslie Ridley-Tree’s Example

Realtor Cristal Clarke, a longstanding supporter of community initiatives, understands the importance of giving back. Over the years, Cristal has made significant contributions to various charitable causes. Just as Leslie Ridley-Tree's philanthropy continues to inspire, Cristal Clarke's dedication to community welfare exemplifies the spirit of generosity that strengthens Santa Barbara's community fabric.


Besides being a philanthropist in her own right, Cristal Clarke is an esteemed realtor who holds the #1 position among Santa Barbara, Montecito, and over 60,000 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices real estate agents worldwide. Her commitment to excellence in real estate is mirrored in her dedication to community service and supporting various charitable causes. As you explore her current listings, you'll discover a portfolio that reflects her expertise in luxury properties and deep understanding of the local market. Whether you're buying or selling, Cristal Clarke brings unparalleled knowledge and a genuine passion for enriching the community she serves. For more information or to get started on your real estate journey, you can reach Cristal at (805) 886-9378 or via email at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.


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