The Research Station is located within the historic ranch area of Santa Rosa Island. The legacy of this important period influences many experiences and our sense of place.

“When capturing a scene or setting, I try capturing a moment in time, whether that be present or the past. Time is not linear nor is it constantly in motion. The island is unique in that depending on where you are standing, your perspective in time can be altered. Time can literally sit still or you can be taken to the past.”

– Jonathan Luna

“…I will never forget the experiences I had out here — the people I met, the beautiful scenery (especially Johnsons Lee and Lobo Canyon) and the stories I heard. You can feel the history everywhere around you on this island — both the Chumash and the ranching days. I feel so lucky and grateful to have been offered the opportunity to spend so much time living on and restoring this land…”

– Becca Bernard

“Thank you so much for letting me be inspired going on this trip to Santa Rosa Island. Seeing the color transitions in the water and the landscape was so wonderful. The movement of the water was mesmerizing and important to study especially during the changing light during the day. On our hike, I noticed how the grasses in the landscape changed like the pictures of the water except the colors were deep violets to browns then a wheat color to a blush in the early light. As the day went on the colors in the grass was warmer shades I especially loved how the iron deposits sparkled on the beach where it was washed up on the sand.”

– Denise Wenger (Santa Rosa Island Reflection)

“This is my first field school and first time on the island. I am grateful for my time here. I had a wonderful experience learning something new every day. I am proud to be a part of this island’s history.”

– Lexi Landa (2016 Archeology Field School)

“Spending only a few days on Santa Rosa Island is exhausting, but in a very fulfilling way. You feel so far away from anything in your “normal” life, but so connected to everything around you in that moment. It feels like another world completely. As I reflect on my time there, I reflect on what purpose I have, not only as an artist but as a human being. How can I express the intensity of the island? SRI gives its visitors a sense of simplistic wonder, but the simplicity feels profound. As if nothing matters, but that’s the beauty of it.”

– Anonymous

“Another perfect Rosa Trip. Met the best people and watched the island take a piece of their hearts, relentless wind and all! It’s been a week of coffee, dirt, chilly ocean dips, guitar singalongs, and laughter — always. Until next time, Rosa!”

– Britt Lucero (2016 Archeology Field School)