Shepard Fairey

Though Keith Haring died only two years after I started making street art, his art and practice had already profoundly impacted me. Haring demonstrated that one could create art on the street that differed from the more pervasive lettering-based graffiti. He also showed me that the same artists could not only affect people on the streets, but they could also put their art on T-shirts and record covers as well as have their work respected, displayed, and sold as fine art. Inspired by Keith Haring's achievements, I pursued my art career with the optimism that my goals could be attained.⁠ ⁠ It isn't surprising that Haring chose to tackle social issues in his art. Children's health, the fight against the crack and AIDS epidemics, and the battle to end apartheid in South Africa were just a few causes Haring championed.⁠ ⁠ In honor of today being the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, which took place on this day in 1969, I'd like to pay tribute to a hero of mine and a champion for so many just causes, especially for LGBTQ+ rights. Let's carry the spirit of Keith Haring and of the Stonewall protestors forward every day.⁠ -S⁠