Yes We Did (Barack Obama Victory Poster)
Print; limited edition screenprint on cream archival paper • Shepard Fairey (American, b. 1970); OBEY Giant Studio
Style & Movement
Contemporary Social Realism / Street Art / Political Pop Art
Medium & Technique
Screenprint (silkscreen) using a stylized four-color palette (red, cream, light blue, and dark navy blue). The technique involves flat color fields and high-contrast graphic stenciling characteristic of street art influences.
Creation Period
2008
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches (standard poster size); portrait orientation
Subject Description
Commemorative portrait of Barack Obama following the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election. The composition features a central tondo of Obama's face above a stylized 'O' rising sun logo and a waving flag motif. He is surrounded by a dense crowd of 'People Powered' supporters. Text includes 'YES WE DID', 'UNITED WE PROGRESS TOWARD A MORE PERFECT UNION', and the date 'NOVEMBER 4TH 2008'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good to Excellent. The print appears well-preserved under glass with vibrant colors and no visible fading or water damage.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 (dependent on edition number and signature verification)
Auction Estimate
$600 - $1,200
Provenance History
Originally commissioned by MoveOn.org to celebrate the 2008 election victory. This piece likely originated from the artist's studio or as a high-tier donor/supporter acquisition from the MoveOn campaign.
Art Historical Significance
Fairey's Obama imagery is considered one of the most iconic pieces of American political art in the 21st century. It represents a paradigm shift in how street art merged with mainstream political campaigning. This 'victory' version serves as the bookend to the famous 'HOPE' poster.
Notable Features
Features a visible pencil signature and numbering by Shepard Fairey in the lower right margin. Includes the MoveOn.org logo and integrated graphic borders that reference Art Deco and traditional currency design.
Condition Issues
Minor potential for undulation of the paper due to humidity (not visible in photo); slight age-toning of the cream paper base is common for this edition but minimal here.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of UV-protective glass (Museum Glass) to prevent fading of the blue and red pigments. Check that the matboard is acid-free (archival) to prevent 'mat burn' on the paper edges.