Stuart Brandt

In thinking about Stuart Brandt and the magnitude of is wide life experiences and adventures, it seems quite a task to attempt to reduce it into a few paragraphs. He was one of those intrepids who ventured where few dare to go.

He was born in Santa Monica in 1942 and was raised in Canoga Park in southern California where there were still farms and fields, horses and cows in the back garden, dirt roads and citrus groves in the San Fernando Valley. He was the second of three children, the only son, born to Clayton and Kathryn Brandt. Raised in an artistic, classical musical and religiously open environment, it was a rich environment encouraging a lifelong curiosity and exploration of all three major influences.

As a youngster Stu was taught and learned to play violin, trombone, piano and later in life he added flute, drums and some other very unusual sound instruments. He loved to sing and after settling in Santa Barbara he took lessons with various teachers. Stuart eventually spent years singing in various local choirs and traveled abroad several times. His fine bass voice was in demand and those years of choral singing gave him much joy.

Artistically, Stuart began painting exceptionally well from a young age. He studied art in New York City and was guided by several notable artists to hone his technique and style developing his skills as a fine portrait painter. Several of his works were featured in films such as “Hook, “Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”and “Blaze.” His-landscapes, murals and decorative art, fine furniture finishes and beautiful walls in local homes and businesses created jewel like environments. He also helped restore the Granada Theater, Marjorie Luke Theater and tower of Santa Barbara Junior High, Lotus Land wall, the Summerland mural, the Unitarian Universalist church and Montecito Country Club.

In the early 80’s, Stuart and his partner opened one of the first coffee houses in Santa Barbara called “The impresario” by the Arlington Theater. It was a comfortable gathering place which showcased poetry readings, music of all sorts and even a flamenco dancer during Fiesta on a very small stage. When they closed, they put their coffee machine on a cart and moved to the Lobero Theater where for years it served coffee and treats.

Many of Stuart’s photographs taken over a period of 60 plus years revealed the dynamic energy Stu expressed in all that he participated in. It was clear that from journals that spiritual adventures were the most passionate part of his sojourn. His lifelong quests and forays centered around the Vedantic, nondualist and universal teachings of saints and sages wherever they might be found-whether in India, Peru, North and South America, Europe, or Asia. No discipline or demand ever turned him back from his desire to know the unity of Life.

Stuart was honest and passionate, able to apologize when out of line and to give praise when due. His compassion and love for all life forms was at the core of his being. His physical presence will sorely be missed.

Stuart was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Kathryn Brandt, and his sister Gloria. Stuart is survived by his two sisters, Gretchen Christman Johnson of England and Jodie Brandt, numerous nephews and nieces, and his husband Bruce Daniels.

A Celebration of Stuart’s Life will take place on June 21, 2026, at 2 pm at the Unitarian Church, 1535 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.