Brandon Sadler Empowers Mount Vernon’s Future Artists

At Mount Vernon, we’re always exploring innovative ways to inspire and engage our students, which is why the recent visit from acclaimed Atlanta artist Brandon Sadler was nothing short of transformative. As part of our Visiting Artists program, thoughtfully arranged by Mariana Depetris, Sadler stepped into our Upper School’s print-making class and instantly connected with students, grounding them in his unique artistic philosophy—a fusion of intention, spirituality, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Sadler, who attended Mount Vernon in the first grade, brought a wealth of experience and wisdom to share with our aspiring artists. His journey from graffiti artist to a celebrated muralist featured in films like Black Panther and Wakanda Forever captivated the room. With every word, Sadler revealed that art is not just about aesthetics but a deeper connection to culture, history, and personal growth.

Our students, always curious and forward-thinking, posed thoughtful questions that opened a dialogue about balancing creative vision with client demands, navigating the discipline of a professional artist’s routine, and maintaining artistic integrity. Each response from Sadler reinforced the importance of authenticity, a lesson that deeply resonated with those contemplating future careers in the arts.

Ceramics instructor Lynn Luster reflected on the profound connection Sadler’s visit held for her, as she once worked at the high school where Sadler honed his early interests. His story, from tagging in high school to mastering modern calligraphy through immersive study in Korean and Japanese cultures, is a testament to the power of perseverance, intention, and mentorship.

Brandon Sadler’s work has become an iconic part of Atlanta’s cultural landscape, from murals on the BeltLine to installations at Google’s Atlanta office. His visit gave Mount Vernon students a glimpse of what’s possible when you combine talent with a strong sense of purpose—igniting a spark of inspiration that will fuel their own artistic journeys. At Mount Vernon, we empower students to explore, create, and innovate, and Sadler’s visit reinforced how art can be a powerful force for both personal and cultural expression.

COMPLETE UNDERPASS MURAL FOR THE BELTLINE EASTSIDE TRAIL / ATLANTA, GA

MURAL FOR THE ELEVATOR LOBBY OF GOOGLE OFFICES / ATLANTA, GA MURALS FOR THE MOVIES, WAKANDA FOREVER & BLACK PANTHER / ATLANTA, GA

This spirit of exploration and creativity continues to thrive across the Upper School. Tomorrow and next Monday, our Fashion class will be connecting with Laura Pestchanker via Zoom in Argentina to work on pattern making for clothing. This international collaboration highlights the dynamic and global nature of our arts program, providing students with new perspectives and skills.

Looking ahead, we are excited to share that plans are in the works to bring artists specializing in scientific and botanical illustration—crossing into fields like anatomy and biology—to Mount Vernon. This intersection of art and science promises to open even more doors for our students, as we continue to offer innovative learning experiences that blend creativity with real-world relevance. Stay tuned for more to come!

View the photo gallery from Brandon’s visit here.

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Brandon Sadler (b.1986) is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Atlanta, Georgia, and graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with a B.F.A in illustration. Sadler was awarded SCAD’s Distinguished Alumnus award in 2019 for his work on Marvel Studios’ Black Panther and his career to date. He is renowned for his public murals and his solo and group exhibitions have brought him accolades as one of Atlanta’s most prolific artists. His work is held in museum and private collections globally. In addition to contributing to the fine art world, he has also worked with several major brands to successfully bring his unique vision into the commercial space.

MUSEUM COLLECTIONS
2023 High Museum of Art, Yasuke Series, Atlanta, GA
2022 North Carolina Museum of Art, Billboard Installation, Raleigh, NC
2022 Science Museum, Black Panther Exhibit, London, UK
2021 SCAD Fashion Museum, Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design, Atlanta, GA
2011 High Museum of Art, Contemporary Art Collection, Atlanta, GA