The first solo exhibition in Italy by Shepard Fairey, known in the art world as OBEY. The museum exhibition will take place at the Cathedral spaces at Fabbrica del Vapore, in Milan, until October 27, 2024.
Shepard Fairey, born in Charleston in 1970, is one of the most influential and acclaimed street artists internationally. Best known for the famous HOPE poster featuring Barack Obama, a symbol of the 2008 presidential campaign, Fairey has elevated street art to a powerful means of social and political expression. His style, characterized by a bold and essential aesthetic, is deeply influenced by hip hop and punk cultures.
The exhibition OBEY: The Art of Shepard Fairey is curated by the artist himself, by Wunderkammern gallery in collaboration with Gruppo Deodato, co-produced with Fabbrica del Vapore, and with the support of the Municipality of Milan. This exhibition represents a visual and conceptual journey through Fairey's 35-year career, presenting a collection of works carefully selected by the artist. Alongside the most representative works of his production, numerous unique unpublished pieces created specifically for the occasion will be exhibited.
The exhibition is divided into five thematic sections, each exploring a fundamental aspect of Shepard Fairey's art:
In this section, the audience will be able to admire the iconic works of the OBEY campaign, which have transformed street art into a powerful means of expression.
The works in this section address crucial themes such as human rights, abuse of power, and war. The choice of Fabbrica del Vapore, a place with a history linked to peace, as the venue for the exhibition adds a deep meaning to this section.
Music is a fundamental source of inspiration for Fairey. In this section, the artist explores the universality and accessibility of music, paying tribute to groups like the Sex Pistols, Black Flag, Bob Marley, and Public Enemy.
The works in the environment section invite the audience to reflect on the importance of safeguarding the planet and the collective responsibility in its protection.
The last section is dedicated to Fairey's new creations, specifically made for this exhibition, offering a unique opportunity to see his most recent and innovative work.
Shepard Fairey, known as Obey, is a contemporary street artist, graphic designer, activist, and founder of OBEY Clothing. In 1989, while attending the Rhode Island School of Design, he created the sticker Andre the Giant has a Posse, launching the OBEY GIANT campaign. In 2008, his portrait of Barack Obama became an international symbol of hope, while his We The People campaign in 2017 inspired the Women's Marches worldwide. With over 135 public murals, Fairey is one of the most influential and provocative artists of our time, transforming the way we perceive urban art.
