Exhibiting Societal Narratives: Exploring Creative Integrity in Contemporary Poster Design

Abstract

This ongoing research explores the intersections of social, political, and cultural narratives within contemporary poster design practice. Via in-depth semi-structured interviews with three Poster Design Masters (Posterists) from three different continents, this study aims to unpack the cultural, ethical and societal influences shaping their design practices. It explores their phrenic and emotive motivations for creating non-monetised posters, aiming to unpack the thought processes and emotional drivers that underpin their work. The study leverages both textual and visual analyses to achieve these aims by curating and exegesing a selection of posters from each designer. Interim analysis of the data has revealed commonalities in altruism, advocacy, and intangible cultural heritage, offering insights into the challenges faced by Posterists in navigating tensions between artistic expression, societal relevance and commitment to ethical causes within non-commercial artistic spaces. The tangible outcomes of this research will be presented as a print-based volume documenting the creative processes and critical insights behind the posters. A virtual exhibition will support this publication, emphasising accessibility and inclusivity as key components of integrous poster design practice. This contribution aims to provide the art and design community with a practicable model of an integrous creative process within poster design, which transcends the boundaries of consumerism and moves towards ethical practice.

Presenters

Lisa Winstanley
Assistant Professor, School of Art Design and Media, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life

KEYWORDS

Poster design, Creative integrity, Design discourse, Non-commercial practice, Virtual exhibition