Artist Statement
“This explanation of my Empire State of Mind print may sound familiar, because it shares the same theme with my Oil & Gas Building print. The print is inspired by, but not based on, the Empire State Building. Industrial power has been a point of pride in America since the early 20th century, and many impressively iconic, if monolithic, architectural landmarks have been erected as symbols of industrial and American dominance. The Chrysler building, the General Electric building, the Sears Tower, and the Empire State Building come to mind. Dominant industrial forces may build great monuments to
About This Print
Empire State Of Mind is a 2014 screen print by Shepard Fairey, published by Obey Giant in a signed and numbered first edition of 450 at 18 x 24 inches, priced at $45. Per the source, the image is inspired by, but not based on, the Empire State Building, depicting a monolithic industrial skyscraper topped not by a torch of glory but by a fire of reckless over-consumption. The work critiques the disproportionate political influence of the oil and gas industry and warns of the dangers of an 'empire state of mind,' arguing for renewable energy and reform of fossil-fuel subsidies. It shares its theme with Fairey's Oil & Gas Building print.
Market Context
Estimated market value: 209.99. Observed range 100.0–2014.0. Latest recorded sale: 2026-04-24. Value is the median of recorded public sales (>= $100); low-high shows the observed sale range.