Vibrant artwork representing the essence of jazz music created for the Savannah Music Festival.
The Savannah Music Festival 2025 will highlight Matt Hebermehl’s artistry, inspired by jazz music. His abstract artwork of an alto saxophone will captivate festival-goers. Hebermehl, who remains connected to Savannah, will engage with the community and showcase his creative process during the festival and beyond.
As the Savannah Music Festival gears up for its 2025 edition, the buzz in the air is palpable. This year’s festival is set to showcase the talented artist Matt Hebermehl, who has been commissioned to create the festival’s program and poster design. While Hebermehl may not play a musical instrument himself, he channels the vibrant, frenetic rhythm of jazz music into his art, delivering a visual experience that feels like a lively jazz jam session.
Even as a child, Hebermehl tried his hand at learning the guitar and saxophone, but ultimately chose to express his love for music through his artwork rather than through musical notes. His appreciation for the art form shines through in each piece, where gesture and movement take center stage, echoing the improvisational spirit of jazz.
The highlight of Hebermehl’s upcoming participation in the Savannah Music Festival will undoubtedly be his captivating artwork. His design features an abstract representation of an alto saxophone — an instrument that remains a cornerstone of jazz — rendered through swirls of black ink infused with vibrant colors. The finished piece aims to illustrate the very essence of sound, allowing viewers to feel the rhythm visually.
Festival-goers will have the chance to meet Hebermehl in person on April 3 at the Festival Pop-Up Shop. From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., visitors can pop by 402 E. Broughton St. for a free meet-and-greet with this dynamic artist. It promises to be a wonderful opportunity for fans and art enthusiasts alike to engage with Hebermehl and learn more about his creative process.
During his Savannah visit, Hebermehl plans to revisit his roots by speaking to students at his alma mater, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). He graduated cum laude from SCAD in 2003 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration and has continued to be an influential figure in the local art scene. His journey began as he worked as a server in Paula Deen’s The Lady and Sons, all while nurturing his artistic aspirations.
Hebermehl helped to shape the contemporary art landscape in Savannah, co-founding initiatives such as SeeSAW (See Savannah Art Walls). This advocacy played a pivotal role in the adoption of a mural ordinance in the city in 2013. One of his notable contributions was painting Savannah’s first official mural the same year, alongside artist James Zdaniewski. His artistic footprint was further cemented with a stunning 66-foot mural on SCAD’s Montgomery Hall, showcasing his ability to transform spaces and engage with the community visually.
Even after relocating to Los Angeles in 2015, Hebermehl remains closely connected to Savannah. He makes it a point to return for various projects, actively participating in the local art culture. His recent work in 2022 included colorful sidewalk murals in the Canal District, enhancing the vibrancy of the area surrounding the Enmarket Arena.
Hebermehl maintains that art is essential in building a sense of community and connectivity among residents. The relationships he has fostered through his work in Savannah are significant to him and continue to inspire his projects. The recent collaboration with the Savannah Music Festival is another link in the fruitful chain that binds him to this beloved city.
The festival’s marketing director recognized Hebermehl’s background and previous contributions to the art scene, making him the perfect choice for this year’s program design. The connection between the artist and the festival is a testament to how shared passions can create lasting collaborations in the realm of art and music.
As the Savannah Music Festival approaches, Hebermehl’s unique flavor of art is sure to capture the hearts of festival-goers. With his infectious enthusiasm for creativity and a strong bond with Savannah, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
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