street art, go

So like many of you, I'm sure you were turned on to street art by Banksy's works. (If not, you're about to be!) I'd like to do a brief intro with a bit o Banksy and Shephard Fairey. Fairey is the mastermind behind the iconic Obama HOPE campaign posters. More to come, for sure.

What is it about street art? I like the in-your-face attitude that comes with generating art, political statements, and general mind explosion puzzles (htf did they do that?!) on public property. I can only say that I'm guilty of spraypainting the NC State Free Expression Tunnel...and there's nothing risqué about that. But man oh man if I had analogous talent and something worthwhile to say, I'd be placing it in the nooks and crannies all over my city, too.

For an interesting and wacky inside look into the world of street art...do yourself a favor and watch Exit Through the Gift Shop directed by Banksy himself, who by the way is just hilarious. It's one of those films that speaks for itself, although I'd like to ask Kate to put this on her "to watch" list for a review in one of her weekend watches. :) (Available on Hulu Plus and instant watch on Netflix.)

Banksy via banksy.co.uk

Banksy via banksy.co.uk

Shephard Fairey via obeygiant.com

Shephard Fairey via obeygiant.com