Sign of the Times // The Great American Political Poster 1844-2012

Political posters in America developed along with the technology capable of producing them. The lithograph printing process of 1840’s brought us the first Presidential poster when Whig Henry Clay ran against the eventual winner, Democrat James K. Polk in 1844.

Like sound bites or commercial jingles now, candidates became famous for the slogans splayed across their posters. In the 1896 Presidential election it appears McKinley’s message of “Prosperity at home and prestige abroad” appealed to more voters than WJ Bryan’s “Liberty, Justice, Humanity; Equal rights to all, special privileges to none.” Go figure!

Some of the designs were created by well-known artists. Roy Lichtenstein for Bill Clinton, Jamie Wyeth for Ted Kennedy and Sister Mary Corita Kent for Shirley Chisholm.

As rallies included entertainment, posters included the names of popular musicians of the day who performed in support of the candidate of their choice; Simon & Garfunkel, Dionne Warwick and Peter, Paul and Mary for George McGovern, Dave Grohl for John Kerry and Bruce Springsteen for Barrack Obama. 

After the tumultuous 60’s and rock and roll 70’s the popularity of political posters slowed until their resurgence during Obama’s 2008 campaign.

The advance in technology brought us posters and now, as with many other forms of print media, the continued technological advancements may prove to be their demise.

In addition to the wonderful collection of posters, the exhibit includes information boards, reading material and a facsimile of a polling booth which patrons can step inside and vote for a favorite design.

Come and see this unique display of some of the most interesting and exciting examples of American style political posters from the past 170 years. 

Sign of the Times; The Great American Political Poster; 1844-2012 will be on display from February 14 to April 30.