Approximately 15 minutes ago I finished an interview with Shepard Fairey, and the amazement still hasn’t left my face. He’s a street artist whose bold political art never fails to impress upon the viewer a strong message. He started out by branding his art everywhere; from street walls to T-shirts and skateboards. He’s worked with a clothing company called OBEY, which coincidentally, I happened to be wearing on the day of this awesome interview. Even those who aren’t familiar with the brand, would certainly recognize his work on the HOPE Obama poster that was used in his campaign.

I am so impressed by Fairey’s work, and the message behind it. We interviewed him just as he was finishing a mural on Houston & Bowery. Many talented artists have graced this particular wall before him; Os Gemeos (and before that someone depicting a Keith Herring work) just to name a few. Fairey’s current mural weaves in ideas of global warming and letting one’s own voice be heard. When asked about what message he would give to aspiring artists, he said that the most important thing is to not overthink it, and to let your instincts guide you. He also mentioned not caring about how your work is received, which I think is really hard to do these days when critics rule the art world. I was also impressed by this guy’s determination. As a street artist, his branding is technically illegal, but he continued with his art, and eventually became really well known for it, which is a big inspiration for all artists with a message.