Poster with motifs by Shepard Fairey, taken from the exhibition Photo Synthesis on display at Fotografiska summer 2024. 

Created during the Iraq War, this print is an alternate phrase inspired by the popular 1960s anti-war mantra "Make love, not war". In this case, Fairey emphasizes the need for creative rather than destructive actions. The Art Nouveau style of the image is a further reference to the Art Nouveau influence on hippie and psychedelic art in the 60s, including many anti-Vietnam War posters. 

Surrounded by a wreath of flowers, the female figure appears more confident and real rather than ethereal. The placement of two brushes below her portrait not only refers to a classical tool of art production but also resembles spears, which when read together with the directive to "obey" displayed on her neck, simultaneously makes the otherwise palatable message more pointed. 

Size: 50x70 cm