UCSB Professor of Art and Art History Kurt Baer was appointed the official art historian of Franciscan missions in California. The Kurt Baer Papers represent Dr. Baer's research materials compiled while writing his three books on the missions and their art and architecture.

Kurt Baer (1903-1979) was born in Switzerland in 1903 and moved to California in 1909 with his family. He went on to study at U.C. Berkeley and worked in the arts before getting his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California. In 1947, Baer began teaching art and history at UCSB. While teaching, Baer became interested in California mission art and architecture. He wrote three books on the topic including: Painting and Sculpture at Mission Santa Barbara (1955), The Treasures of Mission Santa Ines (1956), and Architecture of California Missions (1958). Baer spent his professional career participating in the excavation and restoration of several missions and mission era buildings. He was appointed the official art historian of Franciscan missions in California. In 1960, he received a fellowship from the Organization of American States to lecture and conduct research in Mexico. In 1961, Baer moved to Peru under the Fulbright program to continue his research and study before returning to the United States the following year.

~ 12 linear feet (27 Documents Boxes, 1 Oversize flat file box)

The collection is open for research use by appointment. To make an appointment call (805) 682-4713 ext. 131 or email research@sbmal.org