Shepard Fairey — Lennon Peace and Liberty (Blue)

What You Are Getting

A dual-signed Shepard Fairey screen print from the celebrated 2023 “Lennon Peace and Liberty” series — based on the iconic Bob Gruen photograph of John Lennon flashing the peace sign in front of the Statue of Liberty. This is number 240 of 300, signed by both Shepard Fairey and legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen. Blue colorway. Printed on thick cream Speckletone paper at 18”×24”.

Fairey’s illustration transforms Gruen’s 1974 photograph into the OBEY visual language — radiating lines, chevron patterns, geometric color blocking in light blue, charcoal, red, and gold. Lennon stands center-frame in his leather jacket and sunglasses, peace sign raised, with Lady Liberty rising behind him. The Obey Giant chop mark is present. The political context is powerful: the Nixon administration tried to deport Lennon for his anti-war activism, making the Statue of Liberty backdrop a pointed statement about freedom, immigration, and dissent.

The print arrives professionally framed in a dark charcoal gallery frame with the protective film still on the glazing — indicating this piece has never been displayed. The frame is ready to hang. Simply peel the protective film to reveal the print in mint condition beneath.

Print Details

About the Work

Bob Gruen’s 1974 photograph of John Lennon at the Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable images in rock music history. It was taken during a period when the Nixon administration was actively trying to deport Lennon for his anti-Vietnam War activism. Gruen suggested the location to dramatize Lennon’s case for remaining in the United States, and the resulting image became a permanent symbol of peace, freedom, and artistic resistance.

Fairey’s 2023 interpretation renders the photograph in his signature OBEY visual language — bold graphic lines, propaganda-poster radiating beams, and geometric color blocking. The Blue colorway uses a cool, sophisticated palette of light blue, charcoal grey, and warm red/gold that gives the composition a modern political-poster energy while preserving the emotional core of the original image. The dual signature — Fairey and Gruen together — makes this a true artist-photographer collaboration, not just a licensed reprint.

The print was released in two colorways (Blue and Red), each in an edition of 300. Both sold out immediately. The dual-signature format is relatively rare in Fairey’s catalog and adds meaningful collectible value compared to standard solo-signed releases.

About the Artists

Shepard Fairey (b. 1970) is one of the most influential street artists of the 21st century. Collections: Smithsonian, MoMA, LACMA, Victoria and Albert Museum. The “Hope” poster for Obama’s 2008 campaign cemented his place in American visual culture. His screen prints are the core of one of the most active secondary markets in contemporary art.

Bob Gruen is one of the most celebrated rock photographers in history. His work has defined the visual identity of punk rock, having shot the Sex Pistols, the Clash, the New York Dolls, Led Zeppelin, and John Lennon over a career spanning five decades. His Lennon-at-Liberty photograph has been reproduced on posters, shirts, and album artwork worldwide.

What Is Included

• Shepard Fairey “Lennon Peace and Liberty (Blue)” screen print, 240/300
• Dual-signed by Shepard Fairey and Bob Gruen in pencil
• Dark charcoal gallery frame with glazing (protective film intact)
• Hanging hardware included — ready to hang

Shipping

Ships within 1–2 business days via UPS from San Francisco, CA.

Professionally packed with corner protectors, rigid foam cushioning, and a sturdy outer box.

Combined shipping available on multiple purchases. Message us before buying for a custom invoice.

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