I still think the Obey Giant is cool and I’m not afraid to say it.

“Discovering” the Giant in high school was a big deal for me. I had seen it, but I did not understand it. I don’t remember what tipped me off. But once I knew that it really meant nothing at all, I was thrilled. The dominating glare of the Giant softened into a beatific, welcoming gaze. What had been alienating became inviting, welcoming me into a world of dark, iconic imagery charged with sinister purpose. I still see the Giant everywhere, and it still feels like I know a secret.

It’s a matter of record at this point that Shepard Fairey lifts material. His portraits are all traced from photos and everything has a certain “bitmap trace” quality that a qualified eye can’t ignore. I’m over it & over him, but I was already gifted this fat book and I’m keeping it.

Also featured here is my famous Obey hat, in its second incarnation — but that’s a different story.

–A∙