I think that the artist knew not all know of, or have seen his art, and the memes that came of it spread a message without them having to do much to spread it. I didn't hear of our see the artist's work, the first thing I thought was, that is one gaudy painting. I made fun, then read posts of those explaining it, thank you for this.
I have a bad habit of noticing everything in pictures, except the focal point. Or sporting events, I'll watch the crowd behind the batter. Anyway… I began looking at it really good, and note something symbolic. Even if I don't get it, I realize there's a symbolic reason for it.