Touchless retail policies helping art galleries during tight COVID rules

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - With retail businesses hoping to make holiday sales during very tight COVID-19 limited "Stay-at-Home" orders, a touchless policy in some cases might just pay off.

Among the businesses using the approach are art galleries.

They have been able to show paintings and other forms of art at a close distance but still have safe spacing between the employees and the customers.

For many of the galleries and stores, it is essential to be able to stay open now and stay in business in the long haul.

Owners say they are working it out to show the art and have it packaged on the spot with a safe hand off or have it delivered at a later time to the customer's home.

Some of the most acclaimed artists of the local area have many works ready for sale.

At the Waterhouse Gallery in La Arcada Plaza, Diane Waterhouse says, "the beautiful thing is we are open every day and if they don't feel comfortable coming they can make a  private appointment."

The walls are a journey through the Central Coast from sweeping coastline paintings, to classic landmarks and the uniquely shaped local mountains and valleys.

"It's easy for our painters to this because they are in love with the environment and the city and there's a lot to paint," said Waterhouse.        

The gallery also has paintings representing areas from all over the world.

They are featured on line, which is another, hands free way to make a purchase.

But Waterhouse says, store owners enjoy seeing customers face to face, make the connection and keep the relationship going.

Waterhouse said, "all the local merchants want to see the local Santa Barbara people.    It is safe,  it is regulated. We can follow all the rules. What gives you more joy 24 - 7 than  paintings?"

Watch tonight on KEYT NewsChannel 3, KCOY NewsChannel 12 and KKFX Fox 11 news.

(More details, photos and video will be added here later today)