Chapter 8 Posters

Objectives (1 of 2) Know the purpose of a poster. Become acquainted with the poster’s early history. Realize the dual nature of a poster as visual communication and art object. Appreciate how a viewer may identify with a poster as an expression of individuality. Be aware of how a poster must be considered in context.

Objectives (2 of 2) Consider designing a poster as an instant memorable communication. Understand the integration of type and visuals in poster design. Value poster design as an interpretative medium. Be capable of designing a poster.

Definition A poster is a two-dimensional, single-page format Used to inform (impart information, data, schedules, or offerings) Used to persuade (promote causes, places, events, candidates, propaganda, celebrities, brands, commodities, or groups) Produced in multiples and (usually) widely circulated Often seen concomitantly around town by the same viewer

Purpose The purpose of any poster is to communicate a message. In order to communicate a message, first, a poster first must grab a viewer’s attention.

History Broadsides preceded posters. Used to communicate ephemeral information -- make announcements, publicize news and events -- as well as to promote merchandise By1900, colorful posters won over viewers and artists, alike. Ever since, the public has embraced posters as both visual communication and art objects worthy of display in their homes and offices.

Context (1 of 3) Posters must be designed with context in mind. A poster competes for attention with surrounding posters, outdoor boards, neon signs, and any other visual material.

Context (2 of 3) Sometimes posters are applied as barricade posters, used in multiples. Posters Design firm: Morla Design

Context (3 of 3) Posters Design firm: Muller + Company

Reflecting Content A poster’s design should reflect the subject matter. Poster Design firm: Modern Dog

Individuality A viewer may identify with a poster as an expression of individuality. Poster Design firm: Alexander Isley Inc.

Art Object Many consider some posters to transcend visual communication to become objects of art. Posters Design firm: Sagmeister Inc.

Emotional Connection As memorable communication, posters have the potential of making emotional connections with the audience. Posters Designer: Steven Brower Participants: Steven Brower, Milton Glaser, Mirko Ilic, Luba Lukova

Summary (1 of 2) The purpose of any poster is to communicate a message. Produced in multiples and widely circulated, posters are often seen concomitantly around town by the same viewer. Before posters became a visual communication staple, broadsides were used to communicate ephemeral information -- make announcements, publicize news and events -- as well as to promote merchandise.

Summary (2 of 2) By 1900, colorful posters won over viewers and artists, alike. Ever since, the public has embraced posters as both visual communication and art objects worthy of display in their homes and offices. Posters must be designed with context in mind. A poster competes for attention with surrounding posters, outdoor boards, neon signs, and any other visual material. As memorable communication, posters have the potential of making emotional connections with the audience.