Wave of Distress

Dimensions: 24 x 18 Inches

Medium: Screenprint on cream Speckletone Paper

Provenance: Hand-signed, numbered and dated by Shepard Fairey. Comes with original certificate of authenticity from Pangeaseed.

Edition: Limited Edition of 350 (#203/350)

Year: 2025

Condition: Excellent

ABOUT THE ART

"I’ve done several wave illustrations over the years because I love the power and beauty of waves. The crashing waves and cycle of tides seem like an endlessly reliable pattern, but ocean health is diminishing in many places. The title Wave of Distress is meant to be a warning. Distress means “suffering in a state of great trouble.” If the oceans are in trouble, then the entire planet will be facing a wave of distress. The oceans regulate climate and reduce climate change impacts, and provide an important habitat and source of food for many species, including humans. In addition to the wave, I’ve included patterns in the art that work in rhythmic harmony. The rhythmic harmony of the ocean itself is incredibly important to maintain. These prints are a reminder to respect and restore the oceans."

-Shepard Fairey

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Frank Shepard Fairey (born February 15, 1970) is an American contemporary graphic designer, and illustrator who emerged from the skateboarding scene. He first became known for his "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" (…OBEY…) sticker campaign, in which he appropriated images from the comedic supermarket tabloid Weekly World News. His work became more widely known in the 2008 U.S. presidential election, specifically his Barack Obama "Hope" poster.

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston calls him one of today's best known and most influential street artists. His work is included in the collections at The Smithsonian, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.