Artist Reveals New Design for Kamala Harris

Shepard Fairey, the artist renowned for the iconic “Hope” poster from Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, has created a new piece titled “Forward” to support Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential bid. The artwork features Harris in shades of blue, adorned with red lipstick, a pearl earring, and necklace. In a statement, Fairey emphasized the significance of Harris's message, “We are not going back,” asserting that it encapsulates the current political climate and the necessity to progress. In his endorsement, Fairey expressed confidence in Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, describing them as the best chance to combat rising fascism and threats to democracy. He highlighted the importance of their leadership in achieving a more equitable and just society. Reflecting on his past experiences, Fairey noted his disappointment with Obama’s presidency, stating that he felt the former president compromised on key issues. While Fairey did not create artwork for Hillary Clinton in 2016, he produced three protest posters against Donald Trump, showcasing diverse women. In 2020, he collaborated with Greenpeace USA to urge President Biden to fulfill his climate promises. The new “Forward” design is intended as a grassroots activism tool, with Fairey clarifying that he is not receiving any financial compensation for the artwork. The release of Fairey’s poster coincides with a broader artistic movement, as other artists, like Jacob Thomas, also create works that aim to energize the Democratic Party and its supporters.