Artwork Description
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 Published by Obey Giant, Los Angeles, the print serves as a historical document of the time, encapsulating the widespread feelings and sentiments among the participants of the Occupy Wall Street movement.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.
