Shepard Fairey's "Work Against the Clampdown" will open at the Art Museum of WVU today (April 21) with a free reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Museum Education Center Grand Hall.
Fairey is an American contemporary street artist and founder of OBEY Clothing. He is well-known as the artist behind the “Hope” poster used in Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. Founder of OBEY Clothing, Fairey began his career as a graffiti artist and has evolved into a social influencer with his work that sparks passionate political debate.
“Work Against the Clampdown” refers to the 1979 youth anthem “The Clampdown” by The Clash whose lyrics ask, “do we want to become the status quo?” Fairey uses mash-ups of 1930s WPA posters, 1950s American advertising imagery and Cold War Soviet propaganda posters with bold color combinations and strong compositions to disseminate his messages.
“Shepard Fairey is an important American voice in a time of political change,” said Robert Bridges, museum curator. “It’s important for our community and campus to engage in the conversation.”
The museum is open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Thursday 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.
For more information visit: http://arts.wvu.edu/news/2017/04/19/shepard-fairey-exhibition-opens-april-21.