There seems to be a trend right now in the design world: this "retro modern" aesthetic abounds. We often look at art and wonder, "Wait. Is it vintage or is it new?". Michael Schwab is a Marin County artist who has captured this aesthetic for decades, and until I discovered that he has a pretty robust collection for sale I thought they were all out of my reach.
Having designed the San Francisco National Park posters, Michael Schwab is almost an institution in the Bay Area. A former Berkeley resident myself, I'd seen his posters throughout the city but it wasn't until I saw his work at a friends home across the globe in Paris that I realized the full weight of his aesthetic. His online studio and portfolio reveal the full scope of his work as well as a range of posters and price points.
Some selected favorites:
1. OSU Crew Team "Join Up" 1990 17" x 33", 60 signed and numbered: $300
2. Amtrak Washington, D.C. 2010 16" x 21", signed open edition: $150
3. Marin Headlands 1995 22" x 28", signed open edition: $150
4. Eighth Annual Polo Classic 2006 signed open edition: $200
5. Carneros Wine Country 2001 30" x 20", 200 signed and numbered: $400
What do you think of his taste? Is it timeless or trendy? Let us know in the comments.
Images: Michael Schwab
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Comments (7)
I like them. I wish he made a Point Reyes poster!
I absolutely love Michael Schwab's work. We have four of his small prints from the SF Bay hanging above our antique bookcase in our office. The aesthetic of his work is perfect. Here is how we used them in our office above our desk inspiration piece http://www.oldtownhome.com/2011/11/30/A-Totally-Custom-Solid-Cherry-Desk---Why-Not/.
I think they're quite timeless. I actually used this as inspiration when we came up with our blog's logo and overall artwork. So glad you did a spotlight on him. And so glad you included more examples. Might need to pick up the DC Amtrak one.
Love these! I'm a 7th generation San Francisco native; I think I will have to spring for at least a couple of these. Agreed that a Point Reyes poster would be great!
I love them and think they are timeless. I have the Golden Gate bridge print in my guest bedroom, which happens to be painted two complementary shades of purple to match the print.
We have the Marin Headlands poster framed and hanging in our livingroom. I'd buy them all if I could afford them. And if my wife would let me.
His work is great. There's another Northern California artist called Jake Early, whose work is similar but a little more detailed... He also makes a Point Reyes poster. Check out his stuff!
http://ow.ly/83fGA
Sorry that link didn't go through: http://jakeearly.com/series.php?name=California%20Highway%201