Hope and Obey

At the American Art Museum, Shepherd Fairey's portrait of President Obama has returned to view. It is blue-black-red with "Hope" emblazoned across the bottom. Seen alone, it suggests Obama is the incarnation of hope. He has a slight smile on the face, as if in acceptance of the moniker. However, I wonder. Last year, I saw an exhibit of Fairey's work in Boston. There was a whole series of portraits in the same colors, with "Obey" where "Hope" is placed. "Obey" is a command. The portrait's subject commands the portrait's viewer to obey. Is Hope a command as well? Is that the true stance of the President to the People?