Posters advertising Ansett, Ansett-ANA and Australian National Airways, former Australian airlines

The history of posters begins in the 15th century with woodcut broadsides, which were crude, text-heavy announcements selling everything from religious indulgences to political decrees. But the modern poster as we know it, emerged in the late 19th century, propelled by the Industrial Revolution and the blossoming field of lithography. This new technology allowed for mass production of vibrant, colourful images, perfect for capturing the attention of urban crowds.

Paris of the 1920s became the artistic hub for these posters. Jules Chéret, the "father of the modern poster," seduced onlookers with his graceful Art Nouveau figures promoting theatres and more... nightclubs. Alphonse Mucha, conjured up otherworldly beauty with his flowing gowns and dreamy landscapes for products like Sarah Bernhardt's theatrical productions.

The poster's purpose expanded in the early 20th century. Consumer brands like Coca-Cola and Guinness employed bold typography and iconic imagery to etch themselves into public consciousness. Political movements, too, seized upon the poster's persuasive power. Soviet propaganda posters with their heroic workers and steely gazes rallied support for the communist cause, while British wartime posters like "Keep Calm and Carry On" urged stoicism in the face of Nazi aggression.

Throughout the decades, the poster evolved with the times. The sleek minimalism of Art Deco graced cigarette advertisements, while Pop Art's bold colors and ironic imagery parodied consumer culture. The anti-war and civil rights movements of the 1960s and 70s found powerful expression in posters featuring clenched fists and raised voices. And with the digital revolution, posters transcended physical walls, finding new life on websites and social media, their reach amplified yet again.

The poster's legacy endures today, as it continues to be a canvas for artistic expression, adorning gallery walls and inspiring contemporary designers. It remains a potent tool for activism, with climate change and social justice. less...

Ansett was an Australian airline that was founded in 1936 by Reginald Ansett. Originally called Ansett Airways, the airline began as a regional carrier operating services between Melbourne and Hamilton in Victoria.

In 1946, Ansett Airways merged with Australian National Airways (ANA) to become Ansett-ANA. The merger created Australia's second-largest airline, with a network that covered much of the country.

During the 1950s and 1960s, Ansett-ANA continued to expand its network and fleet, with new services to New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. In 1957, the airline introduced its first jet aircraft, the Vickers Viscount, and more... in 1964 it became the first Australian airline to operate a Boeing 727.

In 1968, Reginald Ansett bought out ANA's share of the company and renamed it Ansett Airlines of Australia. Under Ansett's leadership, the airline continued to grow, with a network that extended to Asia and the Middle East.

However, by the 1980s, the airline was facing financial difficulties, and in 1986 it was sold to media magnate Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation. Murdoch renamed the airline to Ansett Australia, and invested heavily in new aircraft and facilities.

In 2001, Ansett Australia was placed into voluntary administration due to financial difficulties. The airline was subsequently grounded, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and causing significant disruption to the Australian aviation industry. Ansett was eventually liquidated, and its assets were sold off to pay creditors.

Ansett is remembered as one of Australia's most iconic airlines, with a legacy that spans more than 60 years. The airline played a significant role in shaping the Australian aviation industry, and its demise was a significant event in the country's history. less...