“I’ve been a fan of the Talking Heads since I was a kid, listening to songs like “Once in A Lifetime” and “Burning Down the House” on the radio. This was long before I discovered punk rock and realized the band’s significant role in the nascent punk scene at CBGB’s in mid-70s NYC. Watching the film Stop Making Sense on HBO as a teenager left me intrigued by David Byrne’s peculiar yet fearless performance in an absurdly oversized suit. Little did I know then that Byrne’s exploration of life’s awkwardness was precisely his forte!

As I grew more sophisticated, I came to appreciate the Talking Heads’ creative adventurousness both musically and visually. Learning that David, Tina, and Chris all attended the Rhode Island School of Design, the same art college I went to, added another layer of connection.

For the “Overloading the Grid” (David Byrne) print, I collaborated with photographer Bobby Grossman, who had worked with the Talking Heads in the 70s and on three Debbie Harry images. The inspiration for the grid in the print came from the cover of the Talking Heads’ album “More Songs About Buildings and Food,” where a grid of close-up Polaroids formed a full band picture. I’ve always admired the fractured, imperfect mosaic of that cover.

I’m drawn to the idea that David Byrne, as a creative visionary, found powerful tension between appealing melody, unexpected sonic explorations, and provocative lyrics. The Talking Heads possess so many creative layers that they easily overload the grid. I extend my gratitude to David and the rest of the band for their innovation!”

Frank Shepard Fairey is an American contemporary street artist, graphic designer, activist, illustrator, and founder of OBEY Clothing who emerged from the skateboarding scene. He first became known for his “”Andre the Giant Has a Posse”” sticker campaign while attending the Rhode Island School of Design.

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