Born in Oklahoma, Michael Schwab now lives and works in Northern California. From his studio in Marin County, he has established a national reputation as one of America’s leading graphic artists.

He has created national award-winning logos and posters for a remarkable list of prestigious clients, including Apple, Amtrak, the Golden Gate National Parks, Major League Baseball, Robert Mondavi, Muhammad Ali, Nike, Pebble Beach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Robert Redford, San Francisco Opera, Sundance, Sunset Books and Wells Fargo, among others.

Having attended school in Texas, New York and California, Michael has a broad array of visual, cultural and geographic references to which he regularly turns for ideas.

His work is easily recognized by his signature use of large, flat areas of color, dramatic perspectives and bold, graphic images of archetypal human forms.

Often working from posed models, Michael typically designs spontaneously in front of the camera to achieve the lines and shadows he desires. the results appear highly disciplined, revealing little evidence of the difficulty of the effort involved.

His work is dramatic in its simplicity.

Michael’s positive attitude and irrepressible energy allow him to easily meet the demands of his fast-paced career.

The Studio

“Schwab’s studio is part barn, part high-tech enclave tucked away at the foot of Mount Tamalpais in San Anselmo, California. The ceiling is sloped, beamed and airy. On top of the fireplace is a row of awards. It is a majestic space, uncluttered and drenched with light, yet here and there are pieces a prop master would love – an ancient pair of ski poles, a polo mallet, a National Park ranger’s hat, deer antlers and a gigantic bass fiddle, needed for a Fillmore poster.”

— Michelle Medley, excerpts from Dueling Margaritas