Once this Santa Barbara-area resort shut off its fountains, art flowed like water

The Bacara Resort & Spa in Goleta turned off its fountains in response to the city's mandated 25% reduction in water use because of California's severe drought.

But Bacara did something else too: It partnered with local artists, botanists and landscape designers to show just how artsy water-less garden features can be. Visitors are invited to tour the nine fountains at the resort at 8301 Hollister Ave. Here are three of them.

Fontana Dell'Amore

(Courtesy of Bacara Resort & Spa)

No two pieces are alike in this blue-glass artwork created by hand by Saul Alcaraz of Santa Barbara Art Glass. "Saul feels he has captured the power of the sun in this translucent form of perfection," a hotel statement says.

A Cascade of Color

(Courtesy of Santa Barbara Succulent Art)

Succulents arranged here combine several colors and textures . The plants seem to "spill" over the edge, using greenery instead of water to keep the fountains flowing.

Pure Life

(Courtesy of Dalla Vita)

The inspiration here is Costa Rica's "pura vida" vibe, which means creating a peaceful, tropical retreat. The artist hopes visitors will "relax, enjoy life and the simple things that bring joy" when looking at the fountain redo.

If you're visiting Santa Barbara ...

As part of the city's Stage 3 drought regulations passed in mid-May, Santa Barbara hotels and motels are required to post a "drought notice" in each guest room that encourages visitors to skip having their bedding and towels cleaned each day.

In addition, restaurants and eateries will serve water by request only, and pools and gyms will remind their guests to take short showers.