BORN AND RAISED amidst the rich cultural tapestry of the American Southwest, Native New Mexican artist S.M. Chavez (Sean Michael Chavez) paints a unique vision bridging tradition and innovation. He melds the old with the new, nodding to historic masters such as the Taos Society of Artists while simultaneously embracing the future of Western art. His soothing sense of color and exceptional design aesthetic firmly places his work within the spectrum of the best in contemporary western art.
Represented by Santa Fe’s Acosta Strong Fine Art on Canyon Road, he continues to sell out solo shows and participates in several museum exhibitions nationally — venues include The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Albuquerque Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, The Couse-Sharp Historic Site, The Briscoe Western Art Museum and The Coors Western Art Show, where he was recognized as one of three award recipients in 2024.
In 2025, S.M. Chavez is appearing for the first time at Prix de West at The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and has been named the Official Artist of the Breeders Cup.
Notable Awards and Recognitions
2024 Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale, Southwest Art Award
Gallery Representation
Acosta Strong Fine Art, Santa Fe, New Mexico