Shepard Fairey, the artist behind the iconic “Hope” poster that became synonymous with Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign, has once again made headlines with his latest creation for Vice President Kamala Harris. Titled “Forward,” this new artwork aims to capture the essence of Harris’s campaign as she seeks the presidency. The poster features Harris depicted in shades of blue, complemented by striking red lipstick and elegant pearl jewelry, symbolizing hope and resilience.
In a press release announcing the poster, Fairey emphasized the urgency of the moment, quoting Harris: “We are not going back.” He stated that to avoid regression, the nation must move forward. This sentiment resonates deeply with many voters who feel the weight of current political challenges and the need for progressive leadership. Fairey’s artwork not only serves as a visual representation of Harris’s campaign but also as a rallying cry for supporters who aspire to foster positive change.
Fairey’s endorsement extends beyond the artwork itself; he also expressed his support for Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He characterized them as the best chance to counter rising fascism and threats to democracy, asserting that they represent a path toward creating a more just and equitable society. This endorsement is significant, as Fairey’s art has historically influenced public perception and engagement in political movements.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Fairey noted that while he once supported Obama, he felt disappointed by some of the compromises made during his presidency. In an interview with Esquire in 2015, he articulated his frustrations, indicating that he had hoped for more substantial progress. Despite this, he did not create artwork for Hillary Clinton in 2016, citing a lack of inspiration. Instead, he produced three protest posters titled “We the People,” which highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities in response to Donald Trump’s election.
In 2020, Fairey did not produce artwork endorsing Joe Biden but collaborated with Greenpeace USA to create a poster urging Biden to fulfill his climate promises shortly after taking office. This poster, titled “Which Future Will You Deliver?” illustrated two contrasting scenarios: one depicting environmental devastation due to fossil fuels and the other showcasing a cleaner, sustainable Earth. This reflects Fairey’s ongoing commitment to social and environmental causes through his art.
As Harris continues her campaign, the release of Fairey’s “Forward” poster serves as a potent reminder of the power of visual art in political discourse. It encapsulates the aspirations of many Americans who seek to move away from divisive politics and towards a more inclusive future. With Fairey’s artistic vision and Harris’s leadership, there is a renewed sense of hope and determination among supporters eager to see positive change in the country.
The vibrant imagery and powerful messaging in Fairey’s artwork not only celebrate Harris’s candidacy but also inspire a collective movement toward progress. As the campaign unfolds, the impact of such artistic expressions will likely play a crucial role in shaping public sentiment and galvanizing support for the Democratic ticket.
