Merv Brandel was born in Kelowna, BC on November 25, 1948. He attended school in Kelowna and then went on to study at the Alberta College of Art from September 1969 to May 1973, graduating with a diploma in Commercial Art and Advertising.

Following his education, Merv Brandel worked as a commercial illustrator for 11 years. He owned and operated a commercial art business specializing in illustrations for architects and developers.

In 1984, Merv started painting full time and has never looked back. His work has been characterized by incredible photo realism. Where many have the ability to put on canvas the elements in the view, Merv is unique in his ability to capture the life of the subject and freeze it on canvas. He is currently exhibited in several galleries across British Columbia, Alberta and beyond and has enjoyed his work becoming a part of several large corporate collections.

He has participated in many group and solo exhibitions over the years and is forever grateful for his skills and career as an artist. He has recently moved to the coast and his repertoire now includes seascapes as well as dry land pieces.