E Pluribus Venom, New Works by Shepard Fairey
Opening Reception
Saturday, June 23rd from 6-9 pm
Exhibition Dates
June 23 – July 23, 2007
Jonathan Levine Gallery
529 West 20th Street, 9th floor
New York, NY 10011
t. 212.243.3822
www.jonathanlevinegallery.com
The title “E Pluribus Venom” which translates “Out of many, poison” is derived from “E Pluribus Unum” (out of many, one) an early motto adopted by the U.S. Government which appears on U.S. coins and dollar bills.
In the opinion of artist Shepard Fairey, many becoming one, or a loss of power and influence of the individual in favor of homogeny is a symptom of a society in decline. E Pluribus Venom could be interpreted as saying both that there is poison in the American system, and that many individuals are motivated by venom and anger toward this system.
E Pluribus Venom is comprised of artworks designed to question the symbols and methods of the American machine and American dream and also celebrate those who oppose blind nationalism and war. Some of Fairey’s works use currency motifs or a Norman Rockwell aesthetic to employ the graphic language of the subjects they critique. Other works use a blend of Art Nouveau, hippie, and revolutionary propaganda styles to celebrate subjects advocating peace.
The art addresses monolithic institutional power and authority and the role of counter culture and independent individuals to question the dominant paradigm. Shepard Fairey’s new body of work contains politically-charged paint, screen print, stencil, and collage mixed media pieces which use metaphor, humor, and seductive decorative elements to deliver provocative but beautiful results.
These works blur the perceived barriers between propaganda and escapist decoration, political responsibility and humor with the intent of stimulating both viscerally and intellectually.
UPDATES
Just to let everyone know, this going to be a landmark show… We aren’t taking any shorts when it comes to Shepard’s NYC return! Get ready, we are announcing a SECOND SPACE for the exhibition.
The second space is located in DUMBO, Brooklyn. For more information on the DUMBO Space hit the link the below. This exhibition is absolutely something not to be missed!
