poster analysis Kyosti Varis Cigarette Cross Finland, 1967 anti-smoking This poster carries such a powerful message on its own that no words seem to be needed. Varis uses the actual problem itself (in this case cigarettes) to illustrate his message. By placing the cigarettes perpendicular to one another, resembling a cross, viewers are confronted with a powerful anti-smoking message with religious and spiritual undertones. This imagery calls for an emotional connection or appeal from its viewers. Even the dark and limited color palette suggests the solemn and seriousness of the issue. By using the cigarettes to make up this symbol, he is being very direct and honest with his audience.
Lex Drewinski Hunger Germany, 1999 poverty & world hunger This is one of my favorite posters on the site. Similar to Kyosti Varis’ poster above, words are not needed to explain the key issue being addressed. The graphic representation of the struggle with poverty and hunger is done beautifully with the two male figures that take up a majority of the space. The contrast between the convex and concave stomachs creates an entry point my eyes immediately jump to and begin to understand the message. This strong graphic imagery could also be interpreted as representing the growing divide between social classes.