The artist I am working on is Shepard Fairey.
Shepard Fairey is an American contemporary artist, illustrator, and graphic designer. He was born Frank Shepard Fairey on February 15, 1970, and is widely recognized for his graffiti art. This artist displays his designs and works throughout cities (usually illegally) on buildings and signs. He uses many different techniques such as making stencils, stickers and posters to spread his images around. Some of his works such as the OBEY sticker campaign can be seen as Phenomenology, “the process of letting things manifest themselves”. The OBEY sticker was not meant to have a meaning; its meant to be seen by others who will make their own interpretation of the image. The public response to his images can range from curiosity to fear, and have raised attention to certain issues. The Barack Obama “Hope” poster that earned him mainstream attention was made independently, but with approval of the Obama campaign. It was made to support Barack Obama in his presidential run because he saw potential for change in in him. In addition, Fairey’s successful marketing company, Obey Giant, has made designs for many clients including Pepsi, Urban Outfitters. Though he has been criticized for using his art for profit, he truly does care about bringing attention to issues involving political and social change, and encourage people to think and react through his artwork.

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