Posters have evolved significantly from their origins in 1798 when lithography first allowed for mass production. Early posters promoted stage plays and public events. Over time, posters became collectibles and have provided historians insights into past trends and culture. Advances in printing technology have enabled posters to be produced in higher volumes using more durable materials like vinyl and canvas with longer-lasting inks suitable for indoor and outdoor display. Modern poster printing allows for dramatic increases in event and brand exposure.
2. At this point you might be wondering why and how is it
possible that posters could evolve? How can something so
banal be that important so as to even write an evolution
story about it? Well, allow me to shed some light and
dignity to this often underrated yet often seen piece of art
and how it has made its mark in history.
3. The birth of posters can be traced all the way back to 1798
when the invention of lithography enabled masterpieces
to be produced in high volumes to meet the demands of
art collectors. As time moved on, the popularity of posters
rose to its prime simultaneous to the widespread
celebration of stage plays. At that time, posters were
widely used to promote plays and other public gatherings
or important events. It was very common that avid fans
would rip these displays from off the walls for their
keepsake and, consequently, from this came the birth of
poster collection.
4. There are a good number of collectors nowadays as they
were then who preserve old posters that seem to be
nothing but moist and yellow scraps. Scraps which,
needless to say, after 20 or 30 years are already
considered priceless items that have become holders of
documented history. It can now be used to take a glimpse
in history's past trends, cultural growth, political
influences, pop culture and the maturity of visual
communication methods and styles throughout the years.
5. The evolving cascade of posters dating back from its birth
up to this day manifests an incrementing durability in the
paper used and a more vivid ink quality. If we look at the
evolution of posters, we might as well be looking at the
advancement of printing technology. As printers furthered
in their capabilities, better and more durable posters were
produced. This growth in printing technology has afforded
big advertisements to be displayed in more announced
places allowing a dramatic increase in event or brand
exposure.
6. These days, poster printing can now be done on canvas,
vinyl, adhesive materials and other types of stock allowing
more durability and flexibility on how they can be used.
There are also a wider variety of ink types to allow indoor
as well as outdoor displays that can stand changing
weather conditions thus providing a longer poster life.
