Marianist Galleries…
The Marianist Galleries building on the campus of St. John Vianney High School in Kirkwood, Missouri, which began as a caretaker’s cottage and became a creative force in the art world under the direction of the late Bro. Mel Meyer, will transition to the mission of Vianney.
Artwork will be sold at the galleries until July 19; after that date, a selection of Bro. Mel’s artwork showcasing his life will be on permanent display, and will remain the property of the Society of Mary / The Marianists. Bro. Brian Zampier, who has faithfully continued at the galleries, will be on sabbatical from September through December.
Bro. Mel was the resident artist at the “cottage” beginning in 1969. He added the A-frame studio and the two-story addition in the 1970s. Other artists in residence at the galleries over the years include Bros. Gerry Hyland, Steve Erspamer, Tom Suda and Cletus Behlmann.
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Bro. Mel was fortunate to have some wonderful assistants over the years: his sister, Rita “Slats” Meyer Moellering (who played with the Peoria Redwings of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League from 1946-49), John McCarthy, and Lyn Lucas; along with welders Bill Cowie and Greg Williams. It was my privilege to work with Mel for 10 wonderful years. He changed my life.
Feel free to leave a comment or reflection about Bro. Mel and Marianist Galleries below…
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OH ! My heart breaks…..because I’ve discovered Bro.Mel and Bro Zampier so late ! What blessings you both give to us all. Bro.Mel’s work lives on and his creative zest benefits all artists. Bro. Zampier will certainly continue to spread the joy of creativity and may he find just the right time and place as he goes forward. My best regard for the accomplishments of both and thankful that we can yet share them all. Patsy
Thank you, Patsy…. Happy creating to you, too!
I was so thrilled to find out about Brother Mel Meyer ….I recently acquired four, yes (4) of the colorful l”Gal” masks at an auction in Lamar PA. I loved them at sight and knew exactly where I would put them in my home if I was lucky enough win the bid….When I saw the signature, it grabbed me because my name is Melanie (Mel) I knew it was a sign. I thought perhaps someone made them for our local ArtsFest at Penn State University. After i won the bid, I did my homework—I am thrilled. Looking forward to visiting the Gallery in Missouri!
Hello Melanie… the gallery is now closed, works are no longer for sale…you may be able to visit it through the school. Bro. Mel died in 2013. Check out “Brother Mel: a lifetime of making art” on Amazon. Peace, Br. Brian
Thanks Brother Brian!