Riots & Civil Unrest

The Devil Made Me Do It Hand-Pulled 2-Color Silkscreen Print on Hand Deckled 290gsm Coventry Rag Paper by Artist Cleon Peterson Limited Edition Pop Art Artwork. 2022 Signed & Numbered Limited Edition of 300 Artwork Size 18x24 "The TRUTH image ran in the New York Times right before the election in the opinion feature, What Have We Lost. The Devil Made Me Do It & Divided We Stand, United We Fall were both made on January 6th in response to the Faustian bargain that Trump and his accomplices made in designing the coup. Today, we find ourselves at a crossroads; now, more than ever, we must come together, take a stand, exercise our voices, and fight for Truth and Democracy. Hopefully, daylight will cast off this right-wing authoritarian spell. I see these posters as markers of a historical time and feel a duty within to share my views. We're all exhausted by politics, but we must embrace the moment and take action because the threat is fundamental; our democracy could be gone in the blink of an eye." - Cleon Peterson. Cleon Peterson's Stark Commentary in "The Devil Made Me Do It" In the stark dichotomy of black and red, Cleon Peterson's "The Devil Made Me Do It" delivers a powerful visual commentary on the socio-political climate surrounding the events of January 6th, marked by the infamous U.S. Capitol riots. This hand-pulled 2-color silkscreen print on hand-deckled 290gsm Coventry Rag Paper emerges as a piece of street pop art and a historical marker, capturing a moment of intense national upheaval. Art as a Reflection of Societal Turmoil Peterson's artwork, a limited edition of 300 signed and numbered pieces, transcends the traditional boundaries of pop art. It embodies the artist's response to a fraught political landscape, reacting to the tumultuous events that shook the foundations of American democracy. The imagery of a man seemingly dancing while overshadowed by demonic figures speaks to the "Faustian bargain," suggesting a dance with the devil that echoes the betrayals and manipulations of political figures and the public seduced by their rhetoric. The title, "The Devil Made Me Do It," offers an ironic twist on the age-old excuse for succumbing to temptations and making morally questionable choices. Peterson's choice to release these works as a direct response to political events positions the artwork within a tradition of artists who use their craft to document and critique the times they live in. The visual language used in this piece is reminiscent of street art's often aggressive and provocative style, meant to engage the public in public spaces. The Role of Street Pop Art in Political Discourse Cleon Peterson's work exemplifies the role of street pop art in political discourse. Street art has always had a voice in the political arena, often serving as a raw expression of the people, unfiltered and unmediated. Through his work, Peterson extends this tradition by creating a piece that is both a reaction to and reflection of the political unrest that has characterized recent times. With its bold, unapologetic lines and vibrant colors, silkscreen printing makes "The Devil Made Me Do It" a commanding presence. It is a testament to the artist's ability to distill complex political and social emotions into a single, impactful image. In the tradition of street pop art, which often involves taking art out of the galleries and into the streets, Peterson's piece is designed to resonate with a broad audience, its message clear and accessible to all who encounter it. "The Devil Made Me Do It" is more than just a piece of pop art; it is a visual essay on the state of contemporary politics, a call to action, and a reminder of the power of art to reflect and affect change. It is a bold statement within the discourse of street pop art and graffiti artwork, capturing a moment when the world watched as democracy appeared to hang in the balance. Cleon Peterson's voice, through his art, adds to the chorus of those who advocate for truth and democracy, and his work remains a powerful example of how art can engage with and influence the political landscape.

Read more less

Eyes On The King Verdict 4-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Fine Speckletone Art Paper by Shepard Fairey x Ted Soqui Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. 2022 Signed by Shepard Fairey & Ted Soqui, Numbered 18x24 inches. Screenprint on thick cream Speckletone paper. Numbered edition of 600. "I based this “Eyes on the King Verdict” print on photos taken by Ted Soqui during the LA riots of spring 1992. Ted has a long history of photographing activists and protests, which began after the “not guilty” verdicts on April 29, 1992, for the four officers who severely beat Rodney King. I especially love the central pic of a young woman protester in a Malcolm X hat contemplating the scene. I think it is important to consider the symbolic weight of the Rodney King verdict and the emotional impact on communities of color seeking justice and accountability. At the time, 30 years ago, I remember feeling enraged that such a blatant act of police brutality was going unpunished when it was captured on video. It is heartbreaking how frequently similar acts of violence and abuse of power by law enforcement have gone unpunished, even when caught on camera. I don’t ever condone violence or looting, but I understand why LA erupted in riots and protests after the King verdict. When people feel that the American system has failed them repeatedly, things can reach a boiling point. The urge to protest injustice and the right to do so are legitimate, even if looting is not legitimate. The LA riots were a tragic mixture. However, beware of those who try to conflate protest with “criminal agitation” or “inciting a riot.” When the system fails the people, it is nothing short of patriotic for the people to protest for a solution. Ted Soqui and I both signed the “Eyes on the King Verdict” print.” – Shepard

Read more less

This Is America PP Archival Print by Denial- Daniel Bombardier Limited Edition Print on 290gsm Moab Entrada Fine Art Paper Pop Artist Modern Artwork. PP Printers Proof 2020 Signed & Marked PP Limited Edition Artwork Size 18x18 Archival Pigment Fine Art The Provocative Narrative of Denial's "This Is America" "This Is America" by Denial, the pseudonym of artist Daniel Bombardier, is a profound example of street pop art's capacity to engage with contemporary social issues. Released as a Printer's Proof (PP) in 2020, this limited edition print on 290gsm Moab Entrada fine art paper utilizes archival pigment to ensure lasting quality. Measuring 18x18 inches, each piece in this series is signed and marked by the artist, signifying its authenticity and exclusivity as part of a limited edition run. The artwork's stark, graphic quality and poignant textual message combine to form a piece that is both a visual statement and a commentary on the nation's state. Denial's work is known for its bold aesthetic that employs pop art and graffiti elements to convey messages about consumerism, politics, and social justice. "This Is America" is no exception, with its graphic depiction that plays on themes of identity, representation, and the American experience. The artwork's title, a question loaded with social and political undertones, invites viewers to ponder the reality of America's promise versus its actuality, especially concerning racial and social dynamics. Denial's Artistic Influence and Technique In the pop art tradition, Denial utilizes bright, arresting colors and stark contrasts to draw the viewer's eye and provoke a reaction. His technique is reminiscent of screen printing pioneers but with a modern twist that often incorporates elements of street art, such as stenciling and spray paint. The use of 290gsm Moab Entrada fine art paper in "This Is America" speaks to Denial's commitment to quality; the paper's substantial weight and smooth texture make it an ideal substrate for the archival pigment, ensuring that the colors and details of the print remain vibrant over time. The Printer's Proof designation of the print is significant within the art collecting community. Traditionally, Printer's Proofs are considered rare and valuable due to their limited number and the artist's direct involvement in the printing process. Denial's decision to sign and mark each print as PP sets it apart from standard editions, creating a deeper connection between the artist and the work and adding to the print's collectability. Street Pop Art and Its Role in Cultural Discourse Street pop art, as a hybrid of pop art's focus on mass culture and street art's raw, public-facing expression, has become an influential force in cultural discourse. Artists like Denial leverage the visibility and accessibility of street art to bring critical social issues to the forefront of public consciousness. "This Is America" serves as a visual catalyst for discussions about race, equality, and the American dream, effectively using the visual language of pop art to engage a broad audience in these conversations. The piece's direct and aggressive style is characteristic of street pop art's ability to challenge perceptions and inspire dialogue. Denial's work, particularly in this print, harnesses the power of graphic representation to address complex societal issues, making it a poignant example of how art can reflect and influence the times. In sum, "This Is America" by Denial is more than just a piece of modern artwork; it is a statement, a question, and a reflection of the times. Its place in the continuum of street pop art and graffiti artwork is solidified by its provocative imagery and the discussions it sparks. As a PP archival print, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of visual art to comment on and engage with the pressing issues of the day.

Read more less

TRUTH- What Have We Lost Hand-Pulled 2-Color Silkscreen Print on Deckled 290gsm Coventry Rag Paper by Artist Cleon Peterson Limited Edition Pop Art Artwork. 2022 Signed & Numbered Limited Edition of XXX Artwork Size 18x24 "The TRUTH image ran in the New York Times right before the election in the opinion feature, What Have We Lost. The Devil Made Me Do it & Divided We Stand, United We Fall were both made on January 6th in response to the Faustian bargain that Trump and his accomplices made in designing the coup. Today we find ourselves at a crossroads; now, more than ever, is the time we need to come together, take a stand, exercise our voices, and fight for Truth and Democracy. Hopefully, daylight will cast off this right-wing authoritarian spell. I see these posters as markers of a historical time and feel a duty within to share my views. We’re all exhausted by politics, but we must embrace the moment and take action because the threat is fundamental; our democracy could be gone in the blink of an eye." - Cleon Peterson The connection of Peterson with street art is also an aspect of his work worth mentioning. Even though he has created numerous murals all over the world, the artist himself does consider himself a street artist: “I don’t think of myself as a street artist or somebody that does work in that vein, but I love the idea of doing large paintings that confront people.”. This is revealing of his motivation to make his art as accessible as possible, as a way to invite the viewers to interact with it and confront the subjects the artist is interested in addressing. This brings up the following questions concerning the art of Peterson: “What is the meaning of it? Does it have a meaning after all? If yes, is this pre-determined by the artist? In order to better understand the way meaning is created in the world of Cleon Peterson, it is essential to, primarily, understand the way he perceives the media as a field of allegations, unbased rumors, suppositions and outright lies. In the world that the artist has created and, in correlation with our own reality, media is a tool of manipulation in the hands of politicians, leaving us helpless and in the mercy of an exploitative authoritarian system.

Read more less

Obey Radical Peace- Red 2-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Cream Speckle Tone Paper by Shepard Fairey Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. 18 inches by 24 inches Edition of 375 May 7, 2021. Shepards Spin of the Capital Protest 2021 Where Cops Killed 5 Unarmed Protestors.

Read more less

Obey Radical Peace- Cream 2-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Cream Speckle Tone Paper by Shepard Fairey Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. 18 inches by 24 inches Edition of 375 May 7, 2021. Shepards Spin of the Capital Protest 2021 Where Cops Killed 5 Unarmed Protestors.

Read more less

Divided We Stand, United We Fall Hand-Pulled 2-Color Silkscreen Print on Hand Deckled 290gsm Coventry Rag Paper by Artist Cleon Peterson Limited Edition Pop Art Artwork. 2022 Signed & Numbered Limited Edition of XXX Artwork Size 18x24 "The TRUTH image ran in the New York Times right before the election in the opinion feature, What Have We Lost. The Devil Made Me Do it & Divided We Stand, United We Fall were both made on January 6th in response to the Faustian bargain that Trump and his accomplices made in designing the coup. Today we find ourselves at a crossroads; now, more than ever, is the time we need to come together, take a stand, exercise our voices, and fight for Truth and Democracy. Hopefully, daylight will cast off this right-wing authoritarian spell. I see these posters as markers of a historical time and feel a duty within to share my views. We’re all exhausted by politics, but we must embrace the moment and take action because the threat is fundamental; our democracy could be gone in the blink of an eye." - Cleon Peterson The connection of Peterson with street art is also an aspect of his work worth mentioning. Even though he has created numerous murals all over the world, the artist himself does consider himself a street artist: “I don’t think of myself as a street artist or somebody that does work in that vein, but I love the idea of doing large paintings that confront people.”. This is revealing of his motivation to make his art as accessible as possible, as a way to invite the viewers to interact with it and confront the subjects the artist is interested in addressing. This brings up the following questions concerning the art of Peterson: “What is the meaning of it? Does it have a meaning after all? If yes, is this pre-determined by the artist? In order to better understand the way meaning is created in the world of Cleon Peterson, it is essential to, primarily, understand the way he perceives the media as a field of allegations, unbased rumors, suppositions and outright lies. In the world that the artist has created and, in correlation with our own reality, media is a tool of manipulation in the hands of politicians, leaving us helpless and in the mercy of an exploitative authoritarian system.

Read more less

Instigator 2-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Fine Art Paper by SSUR- Ruslan Karablin Rare Street Art Famous Pop Artwork Artist. Silkscreened print limited to 50 pieces. Signed and numbered with embossed logo on the bottom corner.

Read more less

Occupy Protester A.P. 2-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Fine Speckletone Art Paper by Shepard Fairey, Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. A.P. Artist Proof 2012 Signed & Numbered Occupy Protester, 2012 Screenprint in colors on speckled cream paper 24 x 18 inches (61 x 45.7 cm) (sheet) A.P. (aside from an edition of 450) Signed, numbered, and dated in pencil along lower edge Published by Obey Giant, Los Angeles. Occupy Wall Street Shepard Fairey's 'Occupy Protester': A Beacon of Street Pop Art and Activism Shepard Fairey's 'Occupy Protester' is a poignant representation of the artist's involvement with the Occupy Wall Street movement and his continuous impact on street pop art and graffiti artwork. As an artist-proof (A.P.), this 2012 silkscreen print in colors on speckled cream paper was apart from the main edition of 450, enhancing its rarity and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts of the genre. Measuring 24 x 18 inches, the print is significant not only for its artistic merit but also for its strong political message. The 'Occupy Protester' features a figure wrapped in a scarf, with only the eyes visible, set against a backdrop of bold red and black stripes. This image is striking and filled with emotion, reflecting the intensity and urgency of the Occupy movement. The number "99%" prominently displayed in the artwork resonates with the movement's message, which protested against economic inequality and the disproportionate power of the wealthiest 1% of the population. Fairey's choice of speckle-tone paper adds an organic feel to the work, suggesting the grassroots nature of the protests. Cultural and Political Impact of Fairey's Work Shepard Fairey has long been an artist who uses his work to comment on social and political issues. 'Occupy Protester' continues this tradition, embodying the spirit of resistance and the call for change that defined the early 2010s. Published by Obey Giant, Los Angeles, the print serves as a historical document of the time, encapsulating the widespread feelings and sentiments among the participants of the Occupy Wall Street movement. Fairey's ability to communicate powerful messages through his art has solidified his position as a pivotal figure in the street pop art movement. The legacy of 'Occupy Protester' extends beyond its initial release. As a piece of street pop art, it has been instrumental in demonstrating the potential of art to influence public discourse and act as a catalyst for social change. The artist’s signature and numbering along the lower edge of the print serve as a reminder of the personal commitment and the voice of the artist behind the work. It is a testament to Fairey's dedication to his craft and his unwavering support for movements that seek to challenge the status quo. Legacy of 'Occupy Protester' in Street Art Shepard Fairey's 'Occupy Protester' is more than just a piece of art; it symbolizes a pivotal moment in contemporary history. It represents the synergy between art and activism and how street pop art can transcend traditional canvases to become a part of the collective consciousness. As an A.P. screenprint, it holds a special place in the chronicles of street art, signifying a moment when art and the artist stepped out of the shadows and into the arena of political activism. The print remains a powerful piece of visual communication, reflecting the ethos of a movement that sought to redefine power and privilege in the modern world.

Read more less

Just Future Rising 4-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Fine Speckletone Art Paper by Shepard Fairey Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. 2021 Signed & Numbered, Just Future Rising 18 inches by 24 inches Edition of 450 June 23, 2021 "I created for the Time “VOTE” cover just before the 2020 election. At the time, I wanted to address the very unique situation we were in as a country as we faced the Covid-19 pandemic, unrest around police brutality and racial discrimination, voter suppression, and intense political division. We are still facing all of those things, though the development of Covid vaccines has significantly improved public safety and benefitted the fight to end the pandemic. In this illustration, the usually clear-cut rebel symbol of a bandana covering a face takes on a different meaning during Covid, becoming an emblem of safety, respect for one’s fellow citizens, and a sign that the wearer believes in science." -Shepard Fairey The "Just Future Rising" is a striking silkscreen print by Shepard Fairey, an artist renowned for his profound impact on street and pop art through the OBEY series. This limited edition artwork, measuring 18 by 24 inches, was released on June 23, 2021, in a numbered series of 450 pieces. Each print is hand-pulled, utilizing four colors on fine speckle tone paper, highlighting Fairey's signature style that merges art with social commentary. This piece is an extension of his engagement with contemporary issues, as it initially accompanied the Time magazine “VOTE” cover crafted in the lead-up to the 2020 election. Fairey's work consistently echoes themes of political activism and cultural critique, and "Just Future Rising" is a vivid representation of that ethos. The image reflects the turbulent climate of its creation: a nation grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, societal upheaval stemming from racial injustice, the challenges to democracy through voter suppression, and deep-seated political polarization. In this print, the image of a woman with a bandana covering her face symbolizes a multifaceted narrative—transforming a traditional sign of rebellion into a symbol of safety and solidarity in the face of a public health crisis. The bandana, adorned with intricate patterns, carries a badge that reads "The Future is Unwritten," reinforcing the message that change is possible and the future is in the hands of the people. Fairey's choice to depict the bandana, a classic rebel icon, as a protective mask denotes a profound shift in cultural symbols due to the pandemic. It reflects a respect for science and an acknowledgment of the collective effort required to navigate the crisis. The artwork transcends mere aesthetics, embodying the message that caring for one's community and being considerate of public health are now acts of rebellion in their own right. This resonates deeply with the artist's long-standing commitment to using his craft to support social and political change. In the portfolio of Shepard Fairey's creations, "Just Future Rising" is not just a piece of pop artwork; it is a cultural artifact born out of an era defined by upheaval and a call to action. It stands as a reminder of the power of art to influence discourse, inspire action, and reflect the complexities of the human experience in times of adversity.

Read more less

Molotov 4-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Fine Art Paper by SSUR- Ruslan Karablin Rare Street Art Famous Pop Artwork Artist. Silkscreened print limited to 50 pieces. Signed and numbered with embossed logo on the bottom corner.

Read more less

Obey Radical Peace- Blue 2-Color Hand-Pulled Limited Edition Silkscreen Print on Cream Speckle Tone Paper by Shepard Fairey Rare Street Art OBEY Pop Artwork Artist. 18 inches by 24 inches Edition of 375 May 7, 2021. Shepards Spin of the Capital Protest 2021 Where Cops Killed 5 Unarmed Protestors.

Read more less

Sorry Is Not Enough PP Archival Print by Denial- Daniel Bombardier Limited Edition Print on 290gsm Moab Entrada Fine Art Paper Pop Artist Modern Artwork. PP Printers Proof 2020 Signed & Marked PP Limited Edition Artwork Size 18x18 Archival Pigment Fine Art Denial's "Sorry Is Not Enough": A Striking Statement in Street Pop Art "Sorry Is Not Enough," a potent piece by the artist Denial, whose real name is Daniel Bombardier, encapsulates a powerful socio-political message within the framework of street pop art and graffiti artwork. This limited edition archival print is set on a 290gsm Moab Entrada fine art paper—a medium chosen for its durability and ability to hold vibrant pigments. As a Printer's Proof (PP) from 2020, it has a special place in the artist's portfolio, denoting a limited run personally overseen and marked by Denial himself. The piece's dimensions, an impactful 18x18 inches, provide a square canvas that compels the observer to confront the message head-on. The artwork is notable not only for its technical specifications but for its thematic boldness. It features a stylized depiction typical of Denial's work, with solid and contrasting colors and an iconic and enigmatic central figure. The text "Sorry Is Not Enough" boldly underscores the visual, serving as both a caption and a statement that amplifies the emotional resonance of the image. In street pop art, such directness is not uncommon; it's a genre that often seeks to communicate messages succinctly and powerfully, cutting through the noise to reach its audience. The Role of Printer's Proofs in Contemporary Street Art Printer's Proofs are traditionally part of an edition outside the regular numbered series, typically reserved for the artist's personal use. Their rarity and the artist's direct involvement in their creation often make them more valuable and sought after by collectors. Denial's "Sorry Is Not Enough" PP joins this tradition, allowing collectors to own a piece that comes directly from the artist's hand. The PP mark and Denial's signature confirm its authenticity and the print's status as a genuine piece of his oeuvre. In "Sorry Is Not Enough," Denial employs archival pigment in creating the fine art print, ensuring the longevity of the piece and the stability of its vibrant colors over time. Archival pigments are resistant to the fading and deterioration that often plague art materials, making them a favored choice for works meant to stand the test of time. This attention to longevity is a testament to the merging of street art's immediacy and the enduring nature of fine art. Street Pop Art as a Conduit for Social Commentary Denial's work, particularly this print, exemplifies street pop art's unique ability to serve as a conduit for social commentary. By leveraging the visual language of pop art—bold graphics, explicit imagery, and stark text—artists can communicate complex messages quickly and effectively. This piece, with its evocative facial expression and the simplicity of its accompanying text, invites reflection on the current societal discourse, encouraging the viewer to ponder the depth and sincerity behind apologies and the actions that necessitate them. "Sorry Is Not Enough" is a visual dialogue on accountability and the need for substantial action beyond mere words. This message is particularly resonant in an era where public figures and institutions are often called upon to address their wrongdoings. Denial's print captures this zeitgeist, challenging the viewer to consider what meaningful reparation might look like. In conclusion, "Sorry Is Not Enough" by Denial is a compelling example of how street pop art and graffiti artwork can encapsulate and communicate powerful sentiments. This piece not only reflects Denial's skill as an artist but also embodies the potential of street pop art to engage with and influence public discourse. Through his work, Denial continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary art, using his platform to provoke thought and inspire change.

Read more less