American,  b. 1970

Shepard Fairey, a contemporary street artist and graphic designer, was born in 1970 in South Carolina. His artistic journey began with skateboarding culture and its do-it-yourself (DIY) ethos. He created stickers featuring wrestler André the Giant, a recurring motif that would later evolve into his famed "Obey Giant" campaign.

Fairey's breakthrough came in the early 2000s with his "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" sticker plastered on walls around Providence, Rhode Island, where he attended art school. This image, with its bold stencil style and subversive message, resonated with a generation seeking alternative voices.

His most iconic work, however, is the "HOPE" poster of Barack Obama, created for the 2008 presidential campaign. The simple, stylized portrait with the word "HOPE" in bold red letters became a global symbol of optimism and political change.

Fairey's work toes the line between street art and graphic design. He has designed album covers for bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and created murals worldwide. His art often addresses social and political issues, using bold visuals and concise messages to spark conversation.

Shepard Fairey posing with his “Hope” poster of Barack Obama. Damian Dovarganes/AP Images