The Art Evolution of Shepard Fairey

The LA artist's rise to fame.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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Shepard Fairey is not only a force in street art, he’s ubiquitous in our culture, and as the artist behind the Barack Obama Hope poster, how could he not be? His signature designs appear on clothing and collectables, in galleries and on the streets. He even sent a graphic up in space.  And long before she was battling with the Associated Press, Shepard Fairey's OBEY imagery was appearing on walls and buildings all over the world. Familiarize yourself with great Los Angeles artist's career with The Art Evolution of Shepard Fairey.

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Early Years

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André the Giant Has a Posse

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Sticker Bomb

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The Manifesto

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Alternate Graphics

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OBEY

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Wheat Paste Nation

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Years: Late '80s - Present
Notable works: Toxicity Inspector

Working on a two-inch scale, and having found success with his work on the Cianci billboard, Fairey started pasting his OBEY Giant poster (and versions of it) in larger and larger relief, on more and more billboards, and in more conspicuous locations. This would set the precedent for his later, large-scale works that would become rich with filigree, design elements, and motif. His pieces became layered, complex, multi-dimensional compositions. He shows us how in this late video clip below.

 

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Broadening Motifs

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BLK/MRKT

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Gallery Shows

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Critical Backlash

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Studio Number One

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Supply and Demand

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Hope

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Bowery Mural

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Legal Battle With Associated Press

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