Iconic 'Hope' Poster Artist Creates New 'Forward' Artwork for Kamala Harris
The artist behind Barack Obama's iconic 'Hope' poster, Shepard Fairey, has unveiled a new artwork titled 'Forward' for Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign. The poster features Harris in shades of blue with red lipstick, wearing a pearl earring and necklace.
Key Takeaways
- Shepard Fairey, known for the Obama 'Hope' poster, has created new artwork for Kamala Harris.
- The poster, titled 'Forward,' is part of Harris' presidential campaign.
- Fairey endorses Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, as the best chance to combat threats to democracy.
Shepard Fairey's New Artwork
Shepard Fairey, the artist renowned for his 'Hope' poster that became a symbol of Barack Obama's 2008 campaign, has created a new piece for Vice President Kamala Harris. The poster, named 'Forward,' portrays Harris in shades of blue, contrasted by red lipstick. She is depicted wearing a pearl earring and necklace.
Fairey explained the inspiration behind the poster, quoting Harris: "We are not going back." He emphasized the importance of moving forward to achieve progress in various areas, including environmental health, corporate accountability, and social equality.
Endorsement of Harris and Walz
In addition to creating the artwork, Fairey has publicly endorsed Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He believes they represent the best opportunity to counteract rising fascism and threats to democracy. Fairey stated that politics is inherently messy, but this should not deter people from participating in the democratic process.
Fairey's Artistic Journey
Fairey's journey as a political artist has been marked by significant milestones. After the 'Hope' poster, he expressed disappointment in Obama's compromises but continued to use his art for activism. In 2016, he did not create artwork for Hillary Clinton, citing a lack of inspiration. Instead, he produced protest posters against Donald Trump, titled 'We the People,' featuring diverse women.
In 2020, Fairey collaborated with Greenpeace USA on a poster urging Joe Biden to fulfill his climate promises. The artwork depicted Biden in front of two contrasting futures: one ravaged by fossil fuels and the other representing a cleaner Earth.
Grassroots Activism
Fairey has made the 'Forward' poster available for free download, encouraging its use in grassroots activism. He clarified that he received no payment for the artwork and created it solely to support a better future. Fairey urged people to check their voter registration status and be prepared for the upcoming election.
Conclusion
Shepard Fairey's 'Forward' poster for Kamala Harris is more than just a piece of art; it is a call to action. By endorsing Harris and Walz, Fairey aims to inspire people to participate in the democratic process and strive for a better future. The poster serves as a symbol of hope and progress, urging everyone to move forward together.
