Meet Brandon Santiago
Brandon Santiago, a 25-year-old St. Augustine-based artist has found purpose through painting with his feelings.
He began painting 10 years ago and now attends Flagler College. He will graduate with a fine arts degree in December 2024.
Over his artistic career, he has developed a unique abstract expressionist art style that explores the landscapes of the human psyche. He connects with his emotions to create his paintings.
“It’s more physical than anything. It’s not that I have an image in my head, but rather it’s making a brush stroke and that mark leading to another mark. I respond to it physically and visually. It turns into different layers of decision-making,” Santiago said.
His artistic process transports him deeper into his psyche, where he can explore and understand his experiences and feelings.
“When I paint I get lost in this zone. I’m on autopilot and my mind is only half there. Like something is helping me move my arm or make those marks. It’s a weird, weird feeling,” Santiago said.
Santiago communicates raw emotions through abstract strokes and figures. His art style consists of striking colors and bold textures that create energy and movement in his artworks.
Brandon Santiago poses in the Flagler College Photo Studio. By Kathryn Hennessy.
Brandon Santiago smiles during a studio photoshoot. By Kathryn Hennessy.
“Painting is like writing an entry in a diary. When I look back at paintings, I’m able to tell how I was feeling based on the decisions I made through mark-making,” Santiago said.
This abstract expressionist painter began his journey as an artist 10 years ago in Palm Coast Florida. Now in St. Augustine, Santiago has found support from the vibrant artist community.
Santiago’s art first appeared at the Art Box Gallery at 137 King St., Saint Augustine, Florida. This came about after networking downtown during the local Art Walk that happens on the first Friday of every month.
He encourages up-and-coming artists to put themselves out there and be open to new opportunities
“I think the biggest thing is just showing up. The best ability is availability. The more people, you know and the more you show up to things, the more opportunities come your way,” Santiago said.
Santiago has an exciting opportunity coming to life in February 2025 at the Art Association in Downtown St. Augustine, Florida. These works will be shown February 7th – March 3rd.
His solo show titled “Money Culture” will explore ideas outside of himself and delve into the topic of money within society.
“I feel like I have a very unique perspective and I have some stories to share,” Santiago said.
Find more of his work at his portfolio website.
Brandon Santiago poses with his painting in St. Augustine, Florida. By Kathryn Hennessy.
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