The poster : a visual history
(Book)

Includes bibliographical references (pages 295-297) and index.

Even in the digital age, the printed poster retains an important role in connecting with audiences in a way that both entertains and informs. The V & A was one of the first museums to start collecting posters and to recognize the importance of doing so. Far from ephemeral, posters are both a representation of the time in which they were produced and distributed and, in many instances, have shaped the societies in which they were seen. The story of the poster is both one of changing styles and new innovations in design, illustration and printing, and a visually compelling social history. The Poster brings together over 300 examples that tell a comprehensive visual history of poster design and the various ways the poster has been used to tell, to sell, to charm and to spur on change. Organized into seven thematic chapters that tell the story of the poster as a medium, each poster is accompanied by a concise commentary that explains the work in terms of its design, printing, content, message, and the commercial, social, or political impact it may have had. The Poster will be a visual resource for graphic designers and illustrators - a reference for anyone with an interest in collecting posters and a design and social history for all who appreciate this art form.