Rooted in the revolutionary spirit of the May 1968 Paris protests, this image emerged from the workshops of Atelier Populaire, the collective of student and worker activists who used art as a means to fuel social and political discourse. Crafted during an era of widespread strikes and occupations, it embodies the solidarity between agricultural workers (paysans) and urban strikers. With its bold typography and unequivocal message, the piece called for direct collaboration: urging farmers to bypass traditional supply chains and sell produce straight to factories and universities where strikes were paralysing activities. This simple yet powerful demand epitomised the decentralised and inclusive ethos of the movement.
The May ’68 protests, defined by their critique of capitalism, consumerism, and authoritarianism, gave rise to Atelier Populaire, which transformed political struggles into vivid visual communication. Their work was unsigned, reflecting the collective ideology that prioritised collective action over individual recognition. These prints, disseminated from occupied art schools and studios, became tools for mobilisation and resistance. This example of utilitarian artistry underscores the importance of collaboration across societal divides, while serving as a stark reminder of the potency of art in revolutionary movements.