Michael Swanson has exhibited his works of Art in and around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area since 1988. Mr. Swanson's work touches a wide variety of subjects, from Historical themes to Sports which is his specialty. His works have been exhibited in the Governor's Mansion in Annapolis, Maryland; The American Institute of Architecture in Baltimore, Maryland; and other local sport's galleries and venues in the Baltimore/Washington area.

Ever since a junior-high school art teacher suggested he try working in white pencil on black paper, Mr. Swanson has been using that approach. The figures in his tightly rendered portraits seem to appear out of a gloom, as if caught in the beam of a distant spotlight. He draws from his imagination and photographs and prefers to depict athletes and musicians and scenes from the lives of ordinary people. Mr. Swanson is a graduate of Baltimore's Lake Clifton Eastern Senior High School and has studied at the Maryland Institute, College of Art, however, he considers himself self-taught…he has been drawing since he was five years of age.

A writer recently characterized Michael Swanson, the Artist and his Art this way:

"Michael Swanson is a genuine talent". Swanson's humble demeanor is reflected in his art. He does not rely on flashiness and trendy tricks to create superficial art works like some artist today. Mr. Swanson creates life on paper with discipline and refined confidence in his ability. He simply lets his talent speak for him. His sometimes, stark, realistic, black and white portraits of jazz musicians captures the true essence and mood of the music. His work is amazingly all-encompassing and genuine. Swanson's artistic portrayal of jazz players titled "Q" and "Intense" transcends mere art work. They are poetry and emotion, simply one in the same. Mr. Swanson's art has wide appeal and a strong realist foundation. His art speaks volumes and resurrects the craft of "Artist" back to its former glory".

Mr. Swanson works in acrylics and pencil. He has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors. He has also been featured in numerous local news articles and TV shows in the Baltimore area.

Michael Swanson was born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 24, 1963. He is self-taught and still lives in the Baltimore area.