New Orleans’ French Quarter just became more colorful with a new mural by Shepard Fairey. The legendary artist painted his characteristic graphics on the side of the Marriott in honor of a new exhibition at the Mortal Machine Gallery. Titled Harmonious Elements, the mural incorporates two staples of New Orleans’ rich cultural history—music and art.
Weaving in local jazz musicians like Charlie Gabriel and Walter Harris, Fairey pays homage to the significant contributions the city has made to the history of American music. And, in classic fashion, the mural is also a reminder to remain hopeful as we look to the future. This is symbolized by the woman looking to the horizon, searching for meaning despite the crevices rising around her. To her left, a lotus caresses her face. This flower, symbolizing resilience and beauty, only enhances the significance of the piece.
“Bringing Shepard’s mural to New Orleans means weaving another thread into the city’s rich tapestry of art, culture, and resilience,” shares Gabriel Shaffer, part owner and curator of Mortal Machine Gallery. “It’s about creating a landmark that sparks dialogue, challenges perspectives, inspires creativity and reflects the soul of a place where history and rebellion dance in the streets. I am very proud of it.”
In conjunction with the mural, Fairey has also produced a limited-edition print. Some are available at Mortal Machine Gallery, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Greater New Orleans Foundation to benefit victims of the New Year’s terror attack in New Orleans.
Fairey’s exhibition at the gallery, Warning Signs, runs until March 2, 2025, and features an incredible selection of the artist’s work. From screen prints and retired stencils to works on paper, the show is a testament to the power of Fairey’s lengthy career. By merging this exhibition with the public art project, Fairey just further cements his position as one of the great innovators of the street art movement.
Shepard Fairey recently revealed a large-scale mural on the edge of the French Quarter in New Orleans.
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In conjunction with the mural, the artist also released a limited-edition print.
“Harmonious Elements” 24 x 18 inches. Screen print on 80# cream Speckletone paper (edition of 500).
All of this art culminates in a show exploring Fairey’s storied career at the Mortal Machine Gallery.
“Disinformation Havoc,” 2024, mixed media (stencil, silkscreen, and collage) on paper, 23 x 47 1/2 in.
“Exclamation OBEY,” 2024, mixed media (stencil, silkscreen, and collage) on paper, 43 x 38 in