Within street art and contemporary art fields artists apply stencil techniques to create designs by cutting templates from materials such as paper, cardboard or plastic. The stencil template is positioned on a surface like a wall or canvas before pigment is applied on top to create the design. Artists use stencils to accurately reproduce complex designs quickly which makes them ideal for large public artworks. Ancient civilizations including Egypt and China provide evidence that the art technique of stenciling has been used for centuries. Stenciling expanded rapidly in modern times as it became a key technique in the 20th-century graffiti movement. Through his politically provocative stencil art works, Banksy propelled stenciling into modern art prominence while redefining conventional gallery spaces and art accessibility standards. Blek le Rat earned his title as the "Father of Stencil Graffiti" through his influential street art in Paris which motivated future generations of street artists. Through his creation of the famous "Hope" poster for Barack Obama Shepard Fairey established himself as a prominent stencil artist who utilizes this medium to deliver powerful social messages. A group of pioneering artists transformed stencil art from simple street expression into a globally recognized and collected art medium.