This ad for Saks Fifth Avenue is bound to give the more idealistic Shepard Fairey fans reason to pause. Pimping the new Prez is one thing, but Saks is on another level. It’s unadulterated consumerism.
Eric Wilson of The New York Times, asked Fairey if his work could be “misunderstood as some sinister form of retail indoctrination.”
“Some people might think it could be making fun of what’s going on right now,” Mr. Fairey said. “But I think most people are sophisticated enough to realize it’s a way of grabbing attention. It’s commerce. I don’t think there is really any political statement embedded in this.”
Okay, but there is a political statement in an underground artist taking on this type of commission. I don’t have a problem with it, but I have unusual views about art and commerce.
[via Adrants]
Sounds like we may be of one mind on the art/commerce side of things (you’re always getting into trouble, right?).
I like it. I love that whole propaganda-style iconography. Obama had it too. It’s capitalism as a movement.
Arm yourself to fight the Bourgeoisie. Buy bags built for the Proletariat. Perfect size for your gas mask, weapons, fatigues, and castro cap! Internal pockets for replacement filters, and magazines.
¡Viva la ironía capitalista
I’m sure anyone into shopping as a way of life (i.e. their customers) won’t mind these at all. She should be careful with that bony elbow, though. Might put someone’s eye out.
Perhaps I’m missing it, but I really see no political statement. Sure, the graphic style might suggest an underlying thought, but the ad as whole doesn’t say much. ‘Arm Yourself – With A Slouchy Bag’?
Frankly, I think it’s a poor/confused rip-off of Harvey Nichols’ strategy.