Covert to Overt: The Under/Overground Art of Shepard Fairey

by Shepard Fairey

The seminal artist’s recent art and poster works, and his triumphant return to his street-art roots with murals, all in work never before published. Shepard Fairey rose out of the skateboarding scene, creating his “Andre the Giant Has a Posse” sticker campaign in the late ’80s, and has since achieved a mainstream recognition that most street artists never find. Fairey’s “Hope” poster, created during Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign, is arguably the most iconic American image since Uncle Sam. Fairey has become a pop-culture icon himself, though he has remained true to his street-art roots. Covert to Overt showcases his most recent evolution from works on paper to grander art installations, cross-cultural artworks, and music/art collaborations. The book also includes his ubiquitous streetwear and chronicles his return to public artworks. His signature blend of politics, street culture, and art makes Fairey unlike any other subculture/street artist working today. 
This book showcases the significant amount of art he has created the last several street murals, mixed-media installations, art/music events, countless silk screens, and work from his extremely successful OBEY brand.

Genres: Art, Photography

256 pages, Hardcover

First published September 29, 2015

Reviews

[C.C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring book to simply flip through, but it goes to a whole new level when you stop to read the comments, stories, and reflections throughout.

A dangerous read in that when you close it you'll be inspired to go out and create your own art. At least that is what happened to me.

[Donovan Mattole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like millions of others, my first introduction to Fairey was his famous HOPE poster which became a visual representation of the hope and change Obama was campaigning on in 2006 & 2007. I have the original poster framed and had plenty of stickers. Over the years since I have seen many Fairey prints and stickers and his activist bent has meant he has created posters supporting many of the things I’m passionate about. That said, until tonight I never knew much about his street artist beginnings or his perspective on his art and works.

This book is divided up into years - 2010 - 2015 - and before each section is an introduction by either Fairey or a collaborator/friend/fan. I enjoyed the essays as much as I enjoyed the amazing photos. It is a great overview and introduction.

The quality of the book is also fantastic - but that is what I we all expect from Rizzoli!

[Diego Munoz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its a pretty chunky book filled with his work. If you are a fan of his work, then this is a good book.

I do like a lot of his larger works, but for me the portraits of the rock stars are a bit wonky.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shepard Fairey is a total badass. He has completely redefined the art world with his social activism and street art. This man never strayed from his DIY punk rock and skater roots and he is such a great role model for how to channel your inner punk rock kid into doing great things for the world.

[Jason]

An artist's rise is almost always more interesting than his or her sustained success; so, no, you probably won't like this as much as "Supply & Demand." Also, some of Fairey's motifs -- mandalas, lotuses, Mao, and, of course, Andre the Giant -- have become ubiquitous enough to feel like a cliche.

But Fairey's still got ideas to burn, worthwhile ideas to boost, and a spectacular sense of design. This book also made me appreciate Fairey's work ethic. Every guest writer alludes to how hard this guy grinds, despite his success.

However, it's ultimately telling that his collaborations are the most memorable parts of "Covert to Overt."