Fair Use or Not

February 5, 2009
Los Angeles, CA

I had promised myself that I was going to quiet blogging about my obsession with Shepard Fairey, at least for a little while. But as I sorted through the blog-sphere this evening for news and etc, I discovered that the buzz today has been that AP (associated press) is going after Fairey for copy right infringement for the source image he used for his iconic poster of Obama.

Now, there is plenty of out there about this already so I will keep this short and brief. First of all, we had a chat about copyright and intellectual property in a previous post and in many ways I would say that I am advocate of copyright protection. But, common AP, are you serious! If there is ever a time in which one person's art / IP is used, modified to create something new (and may I say BETTER) this would certainly be it. Not only that, but this piece of "new" art is partially responsible for changing the world.

Really!? Really?!?! One more time in case you have not fully understood my amazement or how I feel about this, REALLY!!!???

Also, why now? Is it because Fairey is all over the media and with exhibits opening all around? Why didn't AP bring about this during the election? I also wonder, what would President Obama say? There is a buzz in the art world about the possibility of a culture czar or increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts, how the administration is going to raise the level of art and culture in this country, and etc and etc. Do you think this will be a litmus test for dear newly elected President?

Lots to think about.

The Meaning of Life According to Shepard Fairey

January 30, 2009
Los Angeles, CA

Yes, there has been a lot of posting about Shepard Fairey here of late...but there are just so much to say about it...but here he speaks for himself!

A Shepard Fairey Primer From USA Network



Among the accolades Shepard Fairey has been receiving recently is "Character Approved" a new award from USA Network that honors leading innovators who are shaping American Culture.

Now when I tell you that I want to change the world with my art. Do you still doubt me?