Communist Posters

“Posters have served as vehicles of persuasion, instruction, damnation and social discourse in every communist nation,” writes editor Ginsberg (The Art of Influence: Asian Propaganda) in the introduction to this radiant art book about the intersection of art and revolution. Organized by region, the book examines the political and visual cultures of communist or formerly communist countries around the world, showcasing their similarities and differences through comparative analysis of their poster art. In Vietnam, for example, artists carried their tools to the front battle lines so they could record events and encourage people to join the fight. In Mongolia, simple iconic images conveyed messages about hygiene and harvests, providing a startling contrast to the sophisticated posters produced by Eastern Bloc countries during the Soviet era. In different ways, the essays all raise the same questions: What is the relationship of art to politics and art to propaganda? How does art remain a vital cultural force? Colorful, provocative imagery fills almost every page, with many posters given full-page spreads. This is both a visual feast and an illuminating global study. Color illus[em]. (May) [/em]