"Mikey, do some artwork", Michael's Grandma said, while she directed this little boy to an 8'x8' concrete slab on the enclosed porch at her farm. That concrete slab was Mike's first canvas.

Artist, Michael Swearngin, born on Aug. 5, 1959 in Olathe, KS, had a gift from God. He could draw and paint at a very young age. That little Buckaroo surprised everyone with his artistic talent.

By age 14 he had traveled with his military family to 27 different countries where he began painting. As a young man he made his family laugh when he drew funny cartoon characters. He became a full-time artist in 1994. Sometimes at lunch, sitting at a café table, he would grab a napkin and draw a brilliant piece of artwork in just a few minutes.

Michael Swearngin was a cowboy at heart. With the passion and talent for painting, he found his niche, and loved painting Western themed art.

Michael's long trips to art shows were for many miles, however, listening to George Strait and other musicians made the miles shorter. From California, Arizona, Wyoming, to Texas he traveled and painted. His life of a traveling artist was both surreal and tough. There were times when "All he had was his beat-up leather bag, everything he owned didn't fill up half." However, Mike's painting of Horse – Red, White, and Blue changed his life. With his hard work and dedication to his craft and through his faith and love of Jesus, he grew to become a nationally renowned artist.

Combining his interest in contemporary art with the fading heritage of the American Cowboy, he expressed his experiences to others through his art for many years.

Michael was a joy and made people laugh. Often, he would yell "Hootie Hoo!" when he was happy. He cherished his dog Sienna and now they have been reunited.

Michael had health challenges in his life, but this Artist knew that God takes broken pieces and makes Masterpieces.

His family and friends have supported his art career and encouraged him to keep the heritage of the West alive through his Contemporary cowboy paintings.

His work is displayed all over the world in many private homes, galleries, museums, and even the Smithsonian.

On August 26, 2023, at 64 years old, he passed away peacefully in Scottsdale, AZ. He left an artistic legacy on earth.  He will never be forgotten as a son, brother and a friend.

Michael always gave thanks to God for his many gifts and always had faith. He gave thanks for the cowboys, his friends, and his family. Those that accept the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior will laugh again with Michael and hear him yell "Hootie Hoo!" in Heaven.

"This is where the cowboy rides away…."