Pepe The Frog
While technically not a pet, Pepe the Frog was created by Matt Furie and first appeared in his comic book series “Boy’s Club” in 2006. Initially a laid-back, fun-loving character, Pepe quickly gained popularity on internet forums like MySpace and 4chan. Users adopted Pepe’s image, transforming it into a widespread meme that conveyed various emotions and messages. Over time, Pepe’s image was co-opted by different online groups, leading to a complex cultural significance. In 2015, the Anti-Defamation League included Pepe in its hate symbol database due to its misuse by extremist groups. Matt Furie has since taken legal and creative steps to reclaim and restore the original intent of his creation. Pepe the Frog remains a powerful example of how internet culture can evolve and impact broader societal narratives.
Matt Furie
Birthday
August 14, 1979 (45)
Links (Tags)
Matt Furie is an American artist and illustrator best known for creating the comic book character Pepe the Frog. Furie began his career with the publication of his comic book series “Boy’s Club” in 2006, where Pepe the Frog first appeared. In 2015, the Anti-Defamation League included Pepe the Frog in its hate symbol database, prompting Furie to take legal steps to reclaim the character’s original intent.
Furie collaborated with artist and curator Mark Hurst for gallery exhibitions. He worked closely with filmmaker Arthur Jones on the documentary “Feels Good Man.” He collaborated with publisher Michael R. Cavna on editorial illustrations. Furie partnered with artists like Janelle Hessig and Johnny Ryan on zine and comic book projects. Additionally, he worked with journalist Brooke Gladstone on discussions about internet culture. Furie also collaborated with artist and writer Liz Suburbia on joint art projects.
