Posters have been used to convey information and images to an expectant audience since the advent of lithographic printing in the late 1800s. There is however a precursor to this era, albeit one of a less mass produced nature. Wanted posters in the Wild West, calls to arms during times of conflict, invites to nights of Nitrous Oxide indulgence to laugh your cares away; these were typeset adverts to the masses and probably the start of marketing as we know it today. Once the lithographic printing press mastered colour applications, posters were used decoratively as well as for information. Often containing high quality artwork, these banners have become collectable items, and can fetch a high price on the antiques market. Products and brands that have gained a cult status or following, such as Guinness and Pears, often ensure any marketing paraphernalia commands a high price. Posters available today come in a variety of categories and here we evaluate which ones are worth collecting. Propaganda/Political Often used to promote a message that uplifts to support a political cause, and in many cases calling citizens to action within a conflict situation or time of political unrest. Can also be used to instil fear, intimidation and disinformation in a game of psychological warfare that is often encountered in political campaigns or during times of war. Advertising Slick graphics of the media revolution have taken over hand drawn artwork to promote products to a consumer hungry population. Text combines with an idyllic image or one with a shock value to call a consumer to action, or to ingrain product information. The psychology behind marketing campaigns ensures that promotions are placed in the right place for the target audience. Film Used to promote an upcoming movie, these posters straddle the line between advertising and fan poster status. Many of these become collectors items due to the portrayal of popular movie stars or the work of an acclaimed director. Comic Book Similar in style to Film posters, the promotion of comic books advertises a product and encourages a sale as well as promoting the work of an artist. Once again a highly collectable item, these often become a focal point of artwork, and a prestigious addition to the interior design in a house or workplace. Event /Concert/festival Text heavy on a graphic background, these advertisements primarily convey information to attract a certain demographic to a public event. Whether it is promoting a club night, gig, fete or car boot sale, it is essential to provide all the information in a theme that matches the nature of the event. Educational/Research Most commonly used in schools, colleges and universities, these are information heavy and include geographical and biological maps. Economic graphs and charts are also commonly used. Board meetings and client proposals also feature the use of information posters. It may seem hard to believe, but even these can attain cult status and become collectable items; examples include the periodical table and London underground tube map. Fan /pin up/band These adorn bedroom walls worldwide with images of idols in the music, film and media industries. Glamour shots of pin-up girls, rock bands mid-thrash in concert and sultry pictures of Hollywood heartthrobs are the most popular posters of this type. The image is usually of a high quality, but the transient nature of the celebrity status rarely sees them acquiring a collectable status.
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