UPDATED: In just a few hours, the entire run of the new Shepard Fairey "VOTE" print has sold out! The remaining Artists for Obama prints are going quickly, so place your orders now.
We started the “Artists for Obama” gallery several months ago with nationally acclaimed artist Shepard Fairey. When he created our first image, called "Change," Shep wrote:
"I wanted to make an art piece of Barack Obama because I thought an iconic portrait of him could symbolize and amplify the importance of his mission. I believe Obama will guide this country to a future where everyone can thrive and I should support him vigorously for the sake of my two young daughters…
Shep was kind enough to make a new image for us to use for our final Get Out The Vote push. He used an amazing photo by Pulitzer Prize winner, David Turnley to build this inspirational print.
"I love the new VOTE image because I think that Barack Obama is the rare candidate who is simultaneously dignified, intellectual, and presidential, without losing his good natured humanity. I want someone as my president that I would like as my neighbor. I think our relationships with our neighbors around the globe will improve under Barack Obama."
We are honored to have both Turnley's and Fairey's help, as well as the rest of the artists that have donated their talents to this campaign for change. Visit the Artists for Obama to purchase this amazing limited edition print, as well as prints from Lance Wyman, Gui Bouchert and Johnathan Hoefler.
100% of the profits from Artists For Obama go directly to fund our movement for change.
Acclaimed Latino artist, Rafael Lopez has added a special limited edition print to our “Artists for Obama” gallery. Lopez, from San Diego, has designed several pieces for the United States Postal Service, including the Mendez vs. Westminster stamp in 2007. He writes:
"Barack Obama is a genuine voice for the issues we face in America and the world. His vision and leadership has energized Americans and people around the globe to demand real change. 'Voz Unida' in Spanish translates to 'united voice.' I know we can make the world better by working together and listening to one another. This will bridge the divides that only lead to misunderstanding, intolerance and conflict—divides that concern me as a world citizen, a husband, and a father. I was inspired to paint this poster for my young son as a way to express the hope I have for his future. As an artist I believe Barack Obama exemplifies the united voice of all of us, standing up for everyone who believes that a better tomorrow can become a reality very soon."
Visit the Artists for Obama section of Store.BarackObama.com to purchase this amazing limited edition print.
Also check out artists Lance Wyman, Gui Bouchert and Johnathan Hoefler, all of whom recently contributed limited edition prints to the campaign as well.
With only a few critical days left in this historic campaign, we need everyone to get out and talk to undecided voters. It's the most important thing any of us can do in these final days. Recently Chris Walla (from the band Death Cab for Cutie) took time away from his current tour to volunteer for the campaign in Wisconsin:
Chris had been finding a few hours to help out, stopping by campaign offices on his days off. Chris told us:
Volunteering couldn't be much easier, and it's been lots of fun. I was a little nervous right at first, but I figured out pretty quickly that the people I've been calling and whose doors I've been knocking on are just as concerned for our country as I am, and as Barack Obama and Joe Biden are. People all over this nation are ready for a change, and sincere, little conversations with our neighbors go a long, long way toward getting Barack into the White House.
Chris also took time to make calls to voters:
Walla continued:
This historic campaign is in its final few days, and we need your help — not just someone like you, but you! Your time and enthusiasm are worth their weight in gold — but only if you're willing to share them. I've been sharing my time and energy, and I've been amazed at what I've gotten back. I think you will too... Please join me!
Please take a few minutes out of your busy schedule to call your friends and neighbors and let them know how important it is to go out and vote. You can get started making calls from home right now, or use the map below to find a local campaign office near you:
This weekend, we're relying on our grassroots phonebankers to help out our field organization by making 300,000 phone calls to key battleground states. No matter where you are, you can get started making calls in just a few minutes. And if you are making calls, let us know what you're hearing on the phones today.
UPDATED: As of Sunday at 5:00 PM Central, we're at 240,947 calls with a few hours left of call time tonight. If you have even a half hour to help, you can join supporters across the country by making calls now.
Acclaimed designer, Lance Wyman contributed this amazing print for the Artists For Obama section of our online store. Wyman writes:
I volunteered my time because I believe in Barack Obama. One of his special qualities is his ability to listen as he inspires change. My image is an expression of this important dialogue with the American people. "OBAMA'08" is formed by outer energy, the red, white and blue of America. "OBAMA'08" is also the center that inspires the energy of an American environment of change.
Please visit the Artists for Obama section of Store.BarackObama.com to purchase this amazing limited edition print.
Also check out artists Gui Bouchert and Johnathan Hoefler, who both recently contributed amazing works to the campaign as well.
100% of the profits from the store go directly to fund our movement for change.
Critically acclaimed artist and graphic designer, Gui Borchert, donated his talents to create the latest limited edition print for our Artist for Obama collection. This piece uses key words and themes from our campaign to construct a portrait of Barack -- including "Empower, Respect & Include," the theme of our Iowa campaign that set the tone for the type of campaign we all wanted to be a part of from the very beginning.
Borchert writes, "From the moment I heard about the possibility of Barack Obama running for president, I knew something extraordinary was about to happen. Hope was back in the eyes of not only a nation but the entire world. And the closer we get to this dream becoming a reality, the more inspired I feel to contribute. So I am truly honored to have been invited to design this poster."
"The idea behind the artwork was to create a portrait of Obama using the words he stands for. Over twenty thousand of these words are carefully arranged in different sizes and colors to create an entirely typographical image. I hope this motivates you as much as he has motivated me."
You can purchase this limited edition print, as well as other "Artist for Obama" prints, at Store.BarackObama.com.
New to the site or still undecided? Learn more about Barack Obama and his position on important issues. If you're already a supporter, find out what you can do to help between now and Election Day, and please consider making a donation to strengthen our field operation and help Get Out The Vote.
We are honored to announce our latest Artist for Obama print titled "Possible."
You may notice that the typeface look is the same as the unique typeface on our website, signs, etc. That's because it was designed by Jonathan Hoefler, one of America's leading typeface designers.
Hoefler was one of the creators of the bold typeface called "Gotham," and has now used this unique design to create an inspirational print.
Hoefler writes, "When I was invited to contribute the first all-typographic poster to the Artists for Obama collection, I knew immediately that I wanted to work with the text of his stirring speech, 'A More Perfect Union.' Barack Obama is a leader unique in the history of our nation, who not only understands but embodies what it means to be an American in the 21st century: not only to reflect on our rich heritage, but to embrace our possibilities."
To purchase this print visit Store.BarackObama.com. 100% of the proceeds go Obama for America.
For more information about Johnathan Hoefler visit here.
With only 33 days left, it's more important than ever to call your friends and family to make sure they are registered and voting for Barack. We are excited to announce another way to help you organize your personal contacts and ask them to "get out and vote."
Today, we are launching an official iPhone Application, a free download for iPhone and iPod Touch users. This tool is designed to help you become more directly involved in our campaign to change our country.
The application has a "Call Your Friends" tool that helps you organize your contacts by key battleground states -- a feature we're hoping will generate thousands of additional personal contacts. You can also easily mark reminder notes to yourself on which friends you have called, who they are supporting and who wants a reminder call on Election Day. The information does not leave your phone (so your friends' and your own privacy are protected) but the total amount of calls the application makes are tallied, so you can keep track of your progress as we close in on November 4th.
The Obama 08 application also includes a tool to make it easy to find your local campaign office. Using your phone's current location, you can easily find a field office anywhere in the country (and even find directions to it using the mapping function).
Other features of the application include up to date news from the campaign, video, photos, and all of the issue information needed to use as talking points with your friends when convincing them to register and vote!
Please tell your iPhone users (and iPod Touch users) to download this app today. You can download the application here.
And all mobile users you can get news, updates, videos and more on your phone by texting SITE to 62262 to view our mobile WAP page.
Text messaging has become a growing part of this year's DNCC. Convention goers are able to get schedule updates as well as keep in touch with each other through text messaging. Here are a few photos that were texted in to us this evening from Denver.
Make sure you sign up for mobile updates by simply texting HOPE to 62262.
Our mobile website (called WAP for Wireless Application Protocol) will work on most phones that have mobile Internet access. You can text SITE to 62262 from your mobile phone to receive access.
We've added new features for the WAP site, including ringtones, wallpaper, and -- for the first time ever -- videos that you can download to your cell phone.
We'll be updating our WAP site often with news, videos and more. This site is ideal for all the people in your life that live and breathe on their cell phones.
Tell your friends to text SITE to 62262 to get connected to the official Obama for America mobile website.
We are excited to announce the third print in our Artists for Obama Gallery at Store.BarackObama.com.
This print was created by award-winning engraver and critically acclaimed artist Antar Dayal. Dayal stated:
"I am honored to support Barack Obama's history-making presidential bid through one of his many visionary platforms, including recognizing the importance of art in America. My artwork is inspired by his words, wisdom, accomplishments, and expression of our hopes and dreams for a better America. Our world is facing seemingly insurmountable economic and environmental challenges.
As a first generation immigrant, I have confidence that America can collectively overcome these challenges under Obama's presidency. YES WE CAN!"
Here is a brief video of the detailed production of this print:
Watch for more limited edition artists pieces at Store.BarackObama.com in the days and weeks ahead.
On Tuesday, Barack proposed a new competitiveness agenda centered around education and energy, innovation and infrastructure, fair trade and reform. Today, on LinkedIn.com he is asking for your input.
What ideas do you have to keep America competitive in the years ahead?
Submit your ideas here or in the comments section below.
We are excited by the amazing amount of support we have received from the art community and are honored to announce the second print in our Artists for Obama Gallery at Store.BarackObama.com.
Scott Hansen has generously donated his design talents to create this piece titled "Progress." Hansen is a California-based musician (Tycho) and artist (ISO50). He is well known for blending retro textures and styles with a modern design ethic.
Hansen expressed, "I see Barack Obama as a leader who can inspire people to effect change and who himself can effect change. As an artist, it was only natural for me to want to create something that visually echoed these sentiments. I wanted to create an image that evoked the ideals I feel are central to our needs at this critical time in history: change, progress and hope. Because Barack Obama represents all three of these things to me, I felt compelled to express that through my work."
Local artists are coming together to register voters before the March 24th Pennsylvania voter registration deadline. A pretty unique grassroots event is happening tomorrow in Easton, PA that is offering voter registration along with great music by Esme, Mahoney's View and Plan A Project. There are also rumors of live jazz music and even a street magician. For more details on this event check out this poster by rock artist Zak Kaplan:
For more info visit my.barackobama.com/easton
If you can't make the event but can help register voters this critical weekend visit: PA Registration Weekend.
This conversation airs tonight at 6pm ET/PT on MTV and will be streamed at chooseorlose.com starting at 7pm ET.
This hour long event that was taped in Scranton, PA will be broadcast on all MTV stations (MTV, mtvU, MTV2, MTV Hits, MTV Jams, and streamed across 1,800 sites of the Associated Press online video network.
Also check out think.mtv.com/BarackObama, one of our newest official social networking sites within the MTV community.
(MTV photo of Sen. Barack Obama and Marine Veteran Chris Weimer)
Check out this video of Barack meeting Damian Kulash and Tim Nordwind of OK GO. They were extremely excited to meet with Barack at his rally in Laramie, WY. Damian & Tim remind everyone in Pennsylvania to register Democrat by March 24th in order to vote for Barack in the April 22nd Democratic Primary. You can find out more about registering to vote and our PA campaign at PA.BarackObama.com
They even had a few minutes to discuss net neutrality. Both Barack and OK GO have been strong advocates for a free and open Internet. Watch Barack’s speech on Net Neutrality here.
Fairey wrote about Barack, "I believe with great conviction that Barack Obama should be the next President. I have been paying close attention to him since the Democratic convention in 2004. I feel that he is more a statesman than a politician. He was against the war when it was an unpopular position (and Hillary was for the war at that time), Obama is for energy and environmental conservation."
We were honored to have commissioned this limited edition Obama print that you can purchase at Store.BarackObama.com.
"I wanted to make an art piece of Barack Obama because I thought an iconic portrait of him could symbolize and amplify the importance of his mission. I believe Obama will guide this country to a future where everyone can thrive and I should support him vigorously for the sake of my two young daughters. I have made art opposing the Iraq war for several years, and making art of Obama, who opposed the war from the start, is like making art for peace. I know I have an audience of young art fans and I'm delighted I can encourage them to see the merits of Barack Obama." - Shepard Fairey
To learn more about Shepard Fairey visit Wikipedia.com
A busy week on all of our growing social networks! Our Wisconsin MySpace friends were active this week getting out the vote...
"Sherbert" in Kenosha, WI writes, "[I] made phone calls for several hours last night and again today as my husband hit the neighborhoods despite the single digit chill. We're working hard for Obama in Wisconsin!"And the Texas Democratic Party/CNN Debate was the major discussion point on all our social networks this week, including our text message community...Natasha from Florida wrote in on BlackPlanet, "I watched the Democratic debate tonight and kudos to Sen. Obama!! This debate just stamped the leadership he's displayed and maintained throughout his campaign."And someone wrote in on the comment section of one our Youtube videos from last night. "Barack is a beacon of inspiration and the catalyst to unite the United States of America. Yesterday in the debates, he practiced what he has been preaching by respecting his opponent."(If you missed the debate check out some highlights at youtube.com/barackobama.)Janiece from PA texted in, "I think Obama showed exactly why he is ready to be President. He was eloquent,funny, and substantive."Kathryn M. in Austin texted us, "Senator Obama knocked it out of the park! I especially liked his comment that he would be a good Commander and Chief because of his good judgement (not to go to war in Iraq). He's welcome in Austin any time- Claro que si!"Patrick G. in Salt Lake City, UT texted us, "Sen. Obama really presented his position on immigpation beautifully - it is so great to hear a voice of reason on this issue. It was moving. The statement 'we are a nation of laws and a nation of immigrants' is going to be quotedfor a long time."As our social networks grow, the conversations and excitement are evolving. Check out both our MySpace and Facebook profiles for great conversations about the debate and the direction in which young people would like to move our country.
Over a dozen of Barack Obama's MySpace friends in Washington were elected as delegates for Barack today. Here are some of their comments they just sent us:Sean wrote us, "I caucused for you in Bellevue today...I stepped in the door and your supporters handed me buttons and cookies! I was voting for you anyway, but it was still cool to see such excellent grassroots organization... That's some serious hope right there."Kristin wrote, "Precinct 1719 (Queen Anne) went 7 for Obama, 2 for Clinton. The total count for precincts in my room was 30 delegates for Obama, 8 for Clinton. So excited! Was elected to be a delegate for my precinct, and my brother was elected to be a delegate for his precinct down south. Washington for Obama! Yes, we can!"Zazzoo for Obama in Seattle wrote us "in my personal precinct Obama:110, Clinton:2, Undecided: none. We sent a powerful message here in university country! I am also proud to be a delegate for Obama!"Lilian in Yakima writes, "I went to the caucus and am now a proud delegate for Barack Obama!"Brenda in Bremerton writes, "I was elected to be a delegate at the Kitsap County Caucus in April! Yes we can!"Kimmy in Bellingham writes, "My caucus precinct chose 8 delegates for Obama. Thanks for making me feel like it matters again!"Nikki wrote us, "Just got finished at the Caucus! The votes were pretty even, so it was exciting to be there in support of Barack. I will be representing my precinct as a delegate and I cannot wait until April!"Bryan wrote in,"I went, I voted, and you won my precinct! 4 delegates for Obama. I'm proud to say I'm one!!"Emily from Clarkston/Cheney wrote, "I was elected an Obama delegate at the caucus.""Barack'n Your Socks Off" in Olympia wrote, "I am proud to be representing Olympia's 45th precinct as an elected delegate for the next President, Mr. Barack Obama! Yes We Can"Tyson in Poulsbo wrote, "I'm a delegate for the 404th precinct! Go Obama!"Delegate Benjamin in Seattle, "I caucused and I was elected as a delegate for Barack Obama! I'm fired up and ready to go.""The Girl" wrote us, "My precinct: 28 Obama, 21 Clinton, 3 undecided. I am also a proud Obama delegate. The Washington Democrats website is reporting results in WA for Obama at 66.7% with 7698 delegates, and Clinton with 31.9% and 3685 deligates. Looks like we did it!"
Artists and musicians all over the country are coming together to show their growing support for the excitement and possibilities of an Obama presidency. Please listen to the latest tune that is making its way around the Internet from Seattle's Stone Gossard, Matt Cameron, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready, Barrett Jones and Boom Gasper. Based on the classic tune "Rock Around The Clock", the song is entitled "Rock Around Barack".
Here's what Stone has to say about the recording:
"This is a track I've been thinking about for a while. Rock Around The Clock was the first mainstream rock and roll hit in 1955 and it had a transforming effect on American music. At that time, rock and rhythm and blues music was traditionally only played on black radio. I am, by no means, an expert on the history of rock & roll, but this was a big deal. The rhythm of rock music and its energy were so overwhelming that traditional barriers of race and culture broke down with an enormous crash. So here's to new energy, rock and the breaking down of cultural barriers: Barack Around The Clock!"
We hope this inspires you while you are knocking on doors and getting every one of your friends to go vote!
Please also check out this video made by Seattle's Bergevin Brothers, The Total Experience Gospel Choir, Matt Cameron and others.
For voting information in the key Feb 5 states check out this post.
