Gauntlet Gallery
What is Shepard Fairey’s piece called “Inauguration Print (Signed)”?
Artist Statement
Shepard Fairey Iconic 24×36" limited edition print by Shepard Fairey Signed & Numbered Price: $500.00
Summary
Inauguration Print (Signed) is a 2009 offset lithograph by Shepard Fairey, published by Obey Giant in an edition of 1000 at 24 x 36 inches and priced at $500. The source describes it as an iconic 24 x 36 inch limited edition print, signed and numbered. Issued in both signed and unsigned editions, this is the signed and numbered version. Released in late January 2009, it is tied to the presidential inauguration context of that moment, rendered in Fairey's bold graphic style during the height of his Obama-era public prominence.
Why It Matters
Inauguration Print (Signed) marks one of the most historically charged moments in Shepard Fairey's career, tied to the January 2009 presidential inauguration that followed the campaign his Obama imagery helped define. Coming directly after his Hope poster made him a household name, an inauguration-tied release carries unusual weight as an artifact of that cultural and political turning point. The source identifies it as an iconic 24 x 36 inch limited edition print, issued signed and numbered, with this version being the hand-signed one within a run that also included unsigned copies. For collectors, the signed and numbered status is a meaningful distinction, adding authentication value and desirability over the unsigned edition. The edition of 1000 and $500 release price position it as a more premium offering than his $50 screen prints, reflecting both its larger format and the significance of the moment. As a large offset lithograph anchored to a pivotal inauguration, it sits at the intersection of Fairey's commercial peak and his role in shaping the visual culture of that political era, making it a centerpiece-quality work for collectors of his most consequential period.
Collector Perspective
Inauguration Print (Signed) appeals strongly to collectors of Fairey's Obama-era work and to those seeking signed and numbered pieces with built-in authentication value. The inauguration association gives it standout historical resonance, attracting buyers who collect around major political moments as well as dedicated Fairey followers. Its large 24 x 36 inch format makes it a commanding wall piece and natural centerpiece. The signed version is more desirable than the unsigned edition, and the edition of 1000 keeps it attainable for a signed work of this stature. At a $500 release price it sits above his accessible screen prints, signaling premium status. It fits prominently in collections built around his peak period and around presidential and Obama-era imagery.
Historical Context
Inauguration Print (Signed) dates to late January 2009, the days surrounding the presidential inauguration and the immediate aftermath of the campaign that Fairey's Obama imagery had helped shape. This places it at the absolute peak of his public prominence, when his work had crossed fully into mainstream political culture. As an offset lithograph issued in signed and unsigned editions, it reflects his strategy of offering tiered access to a significant moment, with the signed and numbered version serving collectors seeking the premium form. The larger 24 x 36 inch format and $500 price set it apart from his accessible screen-print releases. It anchors his Obama-era catalog as a marker of the inauguration milestone rather than a routine release.
FAQ
Is this print signed?
Yes. This is the signed and numbered version of the Inauguration Print, described in the source as signed and numbered. The work was issued in both signed and unsigned editions, and this record specifically covers the hand-signed edition, which carries added authentication value over the unsigned form.
What are the edition details?
Inauguration Print (Signed) is an offset lithograph in an edition of 1000, measuring 24 x 36 inches, published by Obey Giant in 2009 and priced at $500. The source describes it as an iconic 24 x 36 inch limited edition print, signed and numbered.
What is the difference between the signed and unsigned editions?
The source lists both signed and unsigned editions of this print. The signed version, covered here, is hand-signed and numbered by Fairey, which typically makes it more desirable to collectors. The unsigned edition lacks the signature. Specific size differences between the two editions are not detailed in the source.
Why is this print significant?
Released in January 2009, it is tied to the presidential inauguration context at the height of Fairey's Obama-era prominence, shortly after his Hope imagery made him nationally known. Its large format, signed and numbered status and $500 release price mark it as a premium, milestone work in his catalog.
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About the Artist
Shepard Fairey (b. 1970, Charleston, South Carolina) is an American street artist, graphic designer, and activist, and a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. His 1989 “André the Giant Has a Posse” sticker grew into the global OBEY GIANT campaign — an ongoing experiment in propaganda, obedience, and visual culture. He reached worldwide recognition with the 2008 “Hope” portrait of Barack Obama, now held by the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. Across screen prints, stencils, murals, and collage, Fairey channels propaganda aesthetics toward themes of peace, justice, environmentalism, and civil rights. His work is in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and LACMA.