In this edition of the Artful Painter, I have the privilege of talking with s. m. chavez (Sean Michael Chavez). He is a native New Mexican artist known for his rich contemporary-western oil paintings that celebrate both the culture and landscape of the American Southwest. Born and raised in New Mexico, his work reflects a deep connection to the region's history and culture. Chavez is especially known for his depictions of vaqueros – figures that are deeply rooted in Southwestern and Hispanic history. Vaquero is Spanish for "cowboys."

Chavez's soothing color palette of beautiful grays and muted colors, coupled with strong design skills honed from his background in illustration come together to allow him to bring his figures and landscapes alive. His distinctive voice blends traditional Western art influences with a refreshingly contemporary approach.

It's no surprise then that Chavez has caught the eye of collectors of contemporary Western art. His work has been exhibited at major venues such as The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Albuquerque Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, The Couse-Sharp Historic Site, and The Briscoe Western Art Museum, and soon the Coors Western Art Exhibit and Sale of January 2026.

In this engaging interview, s. m. chavez shares insights into his artistic journey, discussing the influence of his New Mexico roots and the historical narratives that shape his work. He reflects on the challenges and joys of being an artist, the importance of authenticity, and the role of literature and history in his creative process (a word you will hear Chavez use frequently in our discussion). Chavez also touches on the balance between commercial success and artistic integrity, and the evolving nature of his career.

Links s. m. chavez Website: https://paintingsofthewest.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smchavezart/

Other Links A Harvest of Reluctant Souls: Fray Alonso de Benavides's History of New Mexico, 1630: https://amzn.to/4beLYpt Herb Jeffries in the movie The Bronze Buckaroo (1939): https://youtu.be/NMn21nICdro?si=PQMAUucUtkP6rEPZ

About the Artful Painter: Website: https://theartfulpainter.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CarlOlsonArt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artful.painter/

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