Written by Colleen Miller, Photos by Nick Thomsen
Art has infiltrated Andrew Brandmeyer’s life since he began drawing as a toddler. Now, he is surrounded by the world of drawing, oil painting and illustration. This newly hired, foundations department professor is eager to bring his passion for fine arts to the students of SCAD.
“I’m really stoked to be teaching here,” Brandmeyer said.
Brandmeyer was not always as certain of his direction as he is now. Originally, he attended Fontbonne University with plans to study drafting or music. Eventually, his course diverged. “I really fell in love with art once I began studying it in school,” Brandmeyer said. In fact, Brandmeyer enjoyed his professors at Fontbonne so much, he earned his B.F.A., M.A. and M.F.A. there. “I wanted to continue studying with the professors because of their kindness, work ethic and talent. They were more than just professors; they were mentors as well,” Brandmeyer said.
Driven by the influence of these talented mentors, Brandmeyer previously taught at Maryville University, University of Missouri, Southwestern Illinois College and his alma mater, Fontbonne. The best attributes of each of his professors, with the added touch of his own personality, inform his teaching style.
Brandmeyer’s migration to join the SCAD family moved at a whirlwind pace. After accepting his current position, he left St. Louis within twelve days, even buying an apartment before seeing it. Nothing would stand in his way. He even moved his belongings into the apartment the same day as evacuation for Hurricane Dorian began. He braved the elements alongside his new Savannah neighbors and prevailed.
His apartment is only lacking in studio space. In the near future, Brandmeyer hopes to find a studio for his oil painting so he can sustain his artistic practice. In the meantime, he has stayed busy with illustration work from clients in St. Louis. Of course, teaching has also occupied a wealth of his time.
“I’ve worked with freshmen before,” Brandmeyer said. “I think it’s really exciting to be one of the first professors to expose them to so many aspects of art, giving them a whole set of tools they may not have even considered before.”
As with his own artistic journey, Brandmeyer encourages students to find what they love in college. “If it’s something you know you love, go for it. I think it’s really important when you are making a commitment to a higher education you should really choose something you love,” Brandmeyer said.
To gain inspiration from Brandmeyer’s personal artwork, visit his website.
