On first appearance it would appear ‘Copy DaceFace’ is just a simple parody of shepherd Farleys ‘Obey Giant’ that’s not quite the case and it’s important to note that it was never created in a way to question Shepard Fairey or he’s practice or a response to the piece in it’s self. (Despite it still doing so)

I happen to love Sheps work and if anything it’s a homage to him and the influence of the ‘Obey Giant’ image. 

The choosing of Sheps ‘Obey Giant’ was however not coincidental of course the similarities in messages and the fact the piece explores and contains elements evoked by both subconscious and direct influences resonated with me. From the re-imagined use of Barbara Kruger’s famous white on red declarative captions to the theme lifted from John Carpenters “They Live” which has its own history of adaptions.

Originating from the “Eight O'Clock in the Morning" published in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (November 1963). To Ray Nelson and artist Bill Wray adapting the story as their comic "Nada" published in the comic book anthology Alien Encounters (No. 6, April 1986) Before influencing John Carpenter and his film They Live

“Obey Giant”  is riddled in influences and these are just two examples.

In summary the choosing of the ‘Obey Giant’ piece as the 'Copy Dacface' muse is ultimately a result of it being in my environment at the time I needed to create an art work around plagiarism.

My decision to replace André the Giant's image with a self-portrait adds a deeply personal dimension to the artwork. Here are some key reasons behind this artistic decision:

• Asserting Identity: Replacing André the Giant's image with a self-portrait is an act of asserting one's identity as an artist. It communicates that the replicating artist is taking ownership of the artwork and making a statement about their presence in the art world. It transforms the artwork into a self-expression, a declaration of artistic existence.

• Artistic Self-Reflection: Self-portraiture has been a significant genre in art for centuries. By inserting their own image into the work, the artist engages in self-reflection and introspection. This transformation invites viewers to explore the artist's psyche and ponder the connection between the creator and their creation.

• Subversion of Expectations: The substitution of André the Giant with a self-portrait challenges viewers' expectations. It defies the established conventions of homage and replication by making the artwork intensely personal. This subversion serves as a reminder that artists have the agency to deviate from the norm and surprise their audience.

• Celebrating Individuality: The self-portrait celebrates individuality and the artist's unique perspective. In a world saturated with images, it emphasizes the importance of an artist's distinct voice. It encourages viewers to contemplate the role of the artist in shaping their creations and the art world at large.

• Promoting Artistic Autonomy: This transformation underscores the artist's autonomy in the creative process. It sends a message that artists have the prerogative to reinterpret and reinterpret their work to align with their evolving artistic vision. It challenges the notion that art should remain static or confined to the original creator's intent.

• Encouraging Viewer Engagement: The inclusion of a self-portrait sparks curiosity and encourages viewers to engage with the artwork on a deeper level. It invites them to contemplate the artist's motivations, emotions, and artistic journey, fostering a more profound connection between the artwork and its audience.

In conclusion, the decision to replace André the Giant with a visual self-portrait in a famous artwork is a courageous and introspective artistic statement. It transforms the artwork from a symbol of counterculture into a deeply personal expression of identity and artistic autonomy. It invites viewers to explore the artist's inner world and redefines the boundaries between homage and self-expression in the realm of art.

The decision to replace 'obey' with 'copy' carries several layers of meaning. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Challenging Conformity: The word 'obey' originally urged viewers to conform, to follow orders, and to comply with societal norms. By changing it to 'copy,' the artist challenges the notion of blind obedience and encourages viewers to question the status quo. This substitution can be seen as a call to embrace individuality and critical thinking.

• Highlighting Replication: The choice of 'copy' underscores the concept of replication, a fundamental aspect of art. When artists replicate famous works, they engage in a dialogue with the original artist, paying homage while adding their unique interpretation. 'Copy' encourages viewers to contemplate the fine line between imitation and innovation.

• Exploring Plagiarism: The art world has long grappled with the ethics of plagiarism and appropriation. The word 'copy' brings these issues to the forefront, asking viewers to consider when homage crosses the line into plagiarism and how artists navigate these complex ethical dilemmas.

• Emphasizing Creativity: By replacing 'obey' with 'copy,' the artist emphasizes the importance of creativity and individual expression. The act of copying can be a valuable learning tool for artists, but it should also be accompanied by a genuine desire to innovate and contribute to the artistic discourse.

• Encouraging Debate: Art is meant to provoke thought and conversation. The alteration of 'obey' to 'copy' invites viewers to engage in discussions about the intentions of the original artwork and the motives of the replicating artist. It challenges viewers to explore their own perceptions of art and authenticity.

In conclusion, the decision to replace 'obey' with 'copy' when replicating a famous artwork is a bold and thought-provoking artistic statement. It challenges established norms, encourages critical thinking, and raises important questions about the nature of art, imitation, and originality. It serves as a reminder that art is not static but continually evolving, and that even the most iconic creations can be reinterpreted to convey new and meaningful messages.