In 1798 the process of lithography was perfected. However at that time it was too expensive and costly to mass produce posters for the public. It wasn't until the 1890s when posters really hit the scene. At first, they were considered to be fine art and artists such as Cheret (top) and Toulouse-Lautrec (bottom) got their start.
In 1918 WWI hit. With war, the need for propaganda was required. As a result, the poster world went from fine art to media printing without a second thought. It is here that iconic posters were created, and it is usually this era that people first think of when it comes to the term "historic posters".
Today, posters are used primarily for personal and sometimes professional use. Many Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift posters cover the walls of plenty teenage bedrooms, and community/ college posters are seen for professional communication purposes. So why even use posters these days? Why bother wasting trees to hang up some art on your wall? Well, let me explain.
1. It's cheaper than real art.
Let's be serious, traditional art is expensive. Posters allow us to have copies of great pieces to call our own without having to pay for full price.
2. Rare pieces can be hung in your room today!!
One of a kind art? Pfffft!! Not with the ability to print larger copies and throw them all the wall.
3. A showcase of passions can be present.
Hardly anyone knew about my love of mob movies until I started putting posters all over the place (I'm not obsessed, I swear). Plus, more than one poster can be hung up on a wall. Art, movies, music, etc. can all be witnessed by whomever dares to enter your room.
Posters are coming back guys. Show your passions, be proud of your interests, and most of all wave the freak flag. Be you. Be inspiring. Use posters. Also buy the super large poster, it will fit. I promise.
