I am thinking about taking a few weeks off from the cold on New England. Traveling alone, artist, 53 yo woman...Maybe renting a cottage for a little while...taking a class here or there. Any suggestions?

A different vibe for eack city. Santa Barbara is a lot more tourist-y than SLO-town. Definately a lot more things to do and more beach oriented in Santa Barbara. SLO is pretty close to the beach but not on the beach, it is a college town and has some cool areas. SB is glitsy and posh, SLO is pretty and rural IMO...

Both are great, for different reasons (as described above), but don't think you would be disappointed in either place. Lots of wineries in both areas, both have California Missions, Solvang is nearby and a little different. I think either would please your artistic eye.

We lived on the central coast for a few years and winters were cool, sometimes cold. SLO is inland and warmer, but for warmth (and especially an artist) I'd recommend points further south, e.g. Laguna or La Jolla. Restaurants are a lot better and there's much more to see and do.

Prefer the relaxed feel of SLO, but agree that La Jolla will usually be much warmer.

I wouldn't choose either one in Jan or Feb, the rainy season when even flooding is expected.

La Jolla or Del Mar might fare a little better,Del Mar especially has a reputation for escaping some of the rain storms. But hopefully you can wait until March and enjoy (usually) much better weather.

I agree with all the above on both towns.
Why not do both? The drive is nice and you could take in two very nice California Missions.