Bringing It Home: Drew Merritt’s Artistic Journey Back to the Southwest
Drew Merritt has made a name for himself as a muralist and fine artist whose work transcends borders, blending the gritty textures of street art with the precision of classical painting. Hailing from the small town of Clovis, New Mexico, Drew’s journey from the rural outskirts of the Southwest to the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles, and then back again, is a testament to his enduring commitment to his roots and his art.
After establishing himself in Los Angeles, where he collaborated with some of the biggest names in the contemporary art world and created murals across the globe, Drew has now returned to where it all began. Residing in St. Vrain, New Mexico, he’s embraced a new chapter in his life, combining his love for art with his family’s heritage by establishing Merritt Fine Art & Cattle Co.
For residents of Amarillo and the surrounding areas, Drew’s return is more than just a homecoming; it’s a celebration of the unique voice he brings to the artistic community. His large-scale murals, which grace walls across Amarillo, are a reflection of his deep understanding of the region’s culture and history. Through his work at the Hoodoo Mural Festival, Drew has painted larger-than-life depictions of Texas cowboys and local icons like Dale Brisby, capturing the spirit of the Southwest in a way that resonates profoundly with those who call this place home.
Drew’s ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary—to take the landscapes and people of his home and elevate them into powerful works of art—is what makes him a true ambassador of the Southwest. His murals are not just art; they are a dialogue with the community, telling stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
As we look at Drew Merritt’s journey and his return to the High Plains, we can’t help but feel a sense of pride. It’s not every day that a local talent rises to international acclaim, only to come back and invest in the place that shaped him. Drew’s art, especially in the murals that now define much of downtown Amarillo, stands as a testament to the vibrant culture and resilient spirit of this region.
For those who have watched Drew’s journey from the fields of Clovis to the urban canvases of Los Angeles and back to the heart of the Southwest, his story is one to celebrate and share. We are lucky to have such a remarkable artist representing us, capturing the essence of the land and its people, and reminding us all of the beauty that lies in our own backyard.
