This is probably one of the most interesting topics I've found on the board lately. There is nothing I can really add that hasn't already been said. I mean the whole debate about selling out, artists vs success has been going on for quite awhile. There will always be haters who knew you when who can't stand that you succeed. For the most part beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think anyone who gets it or can relate to it (whatever IT may be -music, print, toys etc) has a bit of an artist in them anyway.

As far as Shepard Fairey is concerned, From what i've read/seen in interviews he is a genuine person and openly admits his sources. All art is influenced from some other source. Art is usually a reflection of the state we live in anyhow. If he can make some scratch off of doing what he's doing more power to him. Because as we all know being a struggling artist having to take really awful jobs sucks. I know I hate it.

Chris