My entire life has been geared toward the making of, and in service of Art. Hard stop.

I've been a fine art printmaker across screen, intaglio, litho, giclee, silver gelatin, and commercial printing my entire adult life.

One artist in particular has been a source of joy, inspiration, and a guiding light in art as the do it yourself - punk rock - rise above - PMA art scene. This inspiration is the reason I’ve been carrying this Art LTD. issue around with me as he was on the cover since 2008 because their art is on it. When I went to LA and explored the mad world that furthered my love of his work as it’s been all around me. That man is Shepard Fairey.

I was first introduced to the Icon in middle school by an Obey/Giant image that my friends sister brought back from Germany on a trip. I was enamored with the Andre image. Wondering what this Bold Image of a face was that just said Giant. It always just kept me wondering for a bit of High School, then into college I became more familiar with the Art/Wheatpaste/Printmaking scene. I was in printmaking specifically when I REALLY dove deep.

We began learning about wood block printing, intaglio, screen, litho and more as I was in commercial printing working at Kinkos, joined the Printmaking Society of North Texas (PANTS), and started coming over to that crowd as I majored in Photography. I’ve seen his work at shows when I moved to LA I ended up working in THIS KINKOS!!

I had been seeing his work all over. And went to his show in Downtown, and we’d crossed paths before. And I’ve discussed his work before on this blog in 2017.

But at Beyond the Streets I was fortunate to see this retrospective exhibit, and actually meet him as well as have a quick convo about how his work has meant so much to me over the years.

Thanks to the homie @nevermade for the introduction as I stumbled over my what I do in the art community, and he was so absolutely kind and generous with his time. Below is a gallery of some of the tools of his trade, showcasing how accessible art can be, and some of his insanely beautiful out of print work. Sometimes if you have something to say, you can just say it. No one is stopping you. Take it from Shepard as he has built an entire career on it. Truly and inspiration to us doing all we can to make a living at making art and having our voices heard.

One of the joys of living in Los Angeles is the art, and this was no exception. This is one of the funnest spots, where now I’ve seen GWAR, Shep, and so many more awesome exhibits. If you come to visit be sure to put it on your radar - Beyond The Streets 434 N La Brea Ave!
Until next time!

Beyond the Streets X OBEY