Propaganda, Advertising & Graphic Arts in 20th Century China
December 3, 1999 - December 3, 1999This exhibition includes all sorts of graphic materials made in China during the 20th century: woodblock prints, propaganda posters, advertising posters, firework labels, joss paper, decorative wrapping paper and New Year?s Eve prints which were hung every year for good luck.
The wood block prints show the influence of the old Soviet Union?s socialist realism: the propaganda posters carry the Communist doctrine; the advertising posters encourage the purchase of certain brands of perfume, skin cream, alcohol, cigarettes and mosquito repellents. The firework labels are very colourful, with gold embossed scenes placed on firecrackers and rockets; joss paper images reflect folk customs and beliefs; and decorative wrapping paper reveals popular colours and designs.