Fairey-isms is a collection of quotations from artist, activist, and designer Shepard Fairey (b. 1970). Though Fairey is perhaps best known for his iconic “Hope” poster created during the 2008 presidential campaign of Barack Obama, he emerged into the public eye as a street artist and graphic designer in the 1990s, and his provocative, anti-conformist artwork has continued to rise in popularity and renown in the 21st century. Using art as a means to stimulate conversation, and facing several arrests throughout his career, Fairey has remained a committed activist and has spoken out against a range of political issues, both through his artwork and his dialogue.
Gathered from interviews and other primary sources, this selection of quotations highlights one of the most important and influential political artists of the 21st century. Provocative and compelling, Fairey-isms enriches our understanding of this modern activist.