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Art Inspired by MLK

In artistic tribute to yesterday’s 50th anniversary of the March on Washington and Martin Luther King’s historic speech, we take a look at some artwork inspired by one of the greatest civil rights leaders of all time. In a variety of styles and mediums, each creative expression keeps the dream alive.

Installations by photographer and street artist JR for Atlanta Living Walls 2013:

In memory of the march in DC where MLK did his I have a dream speech 50 years ago ! #iamaman #mlk #livingwallsatl #unframed

Another JR installation for Atlanta Living Walls 2013 commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington (photo © Jaime Rojo)

photo via jasontravisphoto.tumblr.com

American contemporary graphic designer and illustrator Shepard Fairey emerged from the Southern California skateboarding scene. His work became more widely known in the 2008 U.S. presidential election, specifically his Barack Obama “Hope” poster:

MLK Jr print by Shepard Fairey

Via ryot.org: These drawings, paintings and cutouts may not be the work of masters, but they’re much likelier to put a smile on your face than the majority of “real art” hanging on the walls of museums. Kids don’t just say the darnedest things; they draw them, too. And while they may not be [the most skilled] artists, their hearts always seem to be in the right place:

These first graders are all about crazy eyes and spiked hair. While not historically accurate, this is certainly a creative and welcome interpretation of MLK. image via ryot.org

In this second grader’s interpretation, Dr. King is either sporting a skirt, or about to be shot out of a cannon. We vote for the latter. via ryot.org

Finally, a watercolor:

We’re stoked to see the paints coming out, but this elementary school student may have confused MLK with Jesse Jackson. via ryot.org

 

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