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Shepard Fairey better known by his psuedonym, Obey is one of the most prolific contemporary graffiti artists in the US and a key defining figure of the street art movement, globally. Famed for his 2008 Obama ‘hope’ poster, his work is influenced by and informs a critique of both advertising and propaganda, featuring politically charged images of consumer culture in a graphic, retro style. ‘Lotus Woman’ draws on antiquated vinyl design to create a bold aesthetic. In sepia tones of black and off white, Obey has layered up a series of patterns, creating a graphic lotus flower, encircled at the centre. A neo classical style woman, adorned with laurel leaves, appears to hold up the central panel, a disc reading ‘Obey Records’ in two, historically clashing fonts one Soviet style, the other kitsch Victoriana. The print deftly brings together themes of commercialisation and branding but, beyond all else, ‘Lotus Woman’ is an aesthetic triumph, striking and beautiful to behold.
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