Obey Clothing is a streetwear brand that was founded by artist Shepard Fairey in 2001. The brand draws inspiration from Fairey’s background in street art and political activism, and its clothing often features bold graphics and political messages.
Fairey first gained notoriety in the 1990s for his “Andre the Giant Has a Posse” sticker campaign, which eventually evolved into his iconic “Obey Giant” image. He later used this image as the basis for his clothing line, which quickly gained a following among young people interested in streetwear and counterculture. The image features a stylized version of wrestler Andre the Giant’s face with the word “Obey” underneath. Fairey has described the image as a commentary on the power of advertising and propaganda.
One of Obey’s most iconic designs is the “Propaganda” graphic, which features a stylized portrait of the late Cuban revolutionary leader Che Guevara. The graphic has been controversial, with some critics arguing that it romanticizes a figure who was responsible for human rights abuses. Despite the criticism, the graphic remains a popular item among Obey’s customers.
In addition to its clothing line, Obey has also collaborated with other brands and artists, including Nike, Levi’s, and Keith Haring. The brand has also been involved in various social and political causes, such as supporting the Black Lives Matter movement and advocating for environmental protection. Obey Clothing has been involved in various charitable initiatives over the years. In 2010, the brand collaborated with the World Wildlife Fund to release a limited-edition collection of t-shirts featuring endangered animals. Proceeds from the collection went towards WWF’s conservation efforts.
Obey Clothing has faced criticism for some of its designs, particularly the “Propaganda” graphic featuring Che Guevara. Critics have argued that the graphic glosses over Guevara’s role in human rights abuses and violence. In response, Fairey has defended the graphic as a symbol of rebellion and anti-authoritarianism. Obey Clothing has collaborated with a number of high-profile musicians over the years, including Bad Brains, De La Soul, and Public Enemy. The brand has also sponsored music festivals and concerts.
In addition to its streetwear line, Obey also produces accessories like hats, bags, and wallets. The brand has also released limited-edition items like skateboards and posters.
Sources:
- “Shepard Fairey on Obey Clothing’s 20th Anniversary and How Art Can Inspire Change” (Hypebeast) https://hypebeast.com/2021/6/shepard-fairey-interview-obey-clothing-20th-anniversary
- “Obey Clothing: How Shepard Fairey’s Streetwear Brand Became a Cultural Force” (Complex) https://www.complex.com/style/2017/08/obey-clothing-shepard-fairey
- “Obey Giant’s Shepard Fairey Talks Politics and Art on ‘Salon Talks'” (Salon) https://www.salon.com/2018/03/02/obey-giants-shepard-fairey-talks-politics-and-art-on-salon-talks/
