Norton Simon: Part 1

A few months back, I visited the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, CA to check out their latest collections. My favorite was an exhibit of American propaganda posters from World War I and II. Feelings, emotions, and messages were conveyed and expressed using strong imagery and persuasive one-liners urging Americans to be "all you can be" without even picking up a weapon. The country knew that strength and efficiency was not only important on the front lines but in the homeland, so these political advertisements were made to promote patriotism.












Definitely explains a lot about the inspiration behind Shepard Fairey's art and the OBEY movement. After all, the medium is the message.

Here's a few more cool pieces that were on display..




Van Gogh!


And when no hope was left in sight
On that starry, starry night,
You took your life, as lovers often do.
But I could have told you, Vincent,
This world was never meant for one
As beautiful as you.

Part 2 coming soon!

- Vince