OBEY : SHEPARD FAIREY

Obey (Shepard Fairey): Committed artist and street art icon

Shepard Fairey, better known by his pseudonym Obey, is an emblematic figure in contemporary street art. Born in 1970, this American artist rose to prominence through his committed works combining urban art, political activism, and graphic design. He is notably famous for his "Obey Giant" poster campaign and his iconic portrait of Barack Obama titled "Hope," created during the 2008 presidential campaign. His Marianne, bearing the motto: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, is also displayed at the Élysée Palace.

Shepard Fairey's works are distinguished by their strong social and political message, addressing themes such as equality, social justice, freedom of expression, and the fight against injustice. His unique graphic style, inspired by propaganda, pop art, and graffiti, has marked the history of contemporary art and earned him international renown.

Obey is also active in the field of fashion through his clothing brand, Obey Clothing, which reflects his ideals and social commitment. Fairey's work continues to influence generations of artists and activists worldwide, both through its visual impact and its convictions.

Whether you are passionate about street art or simply curious to discover the universe of this iconic artist, Obey remains an essential reference in the world of contemporary art.

He plunged into the world of graphic design at the age of 14, designing images that would be flocked onto t-shirts and skateboards. Influenced by the work of Andy Warhol and the Russian artist Alexander Rodchenko, Shepard Fairey entered the Rhode Island School of Design at 18.

In 1989, Shepard Fairey's destiny took a turn when a friend asked him to explain how to make stencils. To show him, he grabbed a newspaper and came across a photo of the French wrestler André the Giant; he decided to use it to demonstrate the process. On this work, one can read "André the Giant has a posse". This astonishing creation was a great success. Shepard Fairey quickly decided to make another, simpler and more refined one, and the Obey Giant logo was born.

The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston considers him one of the most famous, best, and most influential street artists of the moment.

Buy his posters and serigraphs online at low prices, cheaply, in our accessible art galleries in Lyon and Paris.