For research that would help me come up with my poster design I decided to look at some traditionally printed Modernist Posters. I decided to look at Edward McKnight Kauffer’s Power, The Nerve Centre of London’s Underground made in 1931. Edward Kauffer was an American born artist known for his experimental and unorthodox graphic design and poster art. This poster was commissioned by the electric railway company in 1931. The idea behind this poster was to convey the impact that electric rail travel was having on the urban life. The bold image was meant to show the unison between men and machine and how it was the powerful driving force behind London’s underground. To create this piece Kauffer used technique known as colour lithography. This is a method of printing originally based on the fact of oil and water don’t mix and reject each other. The printing is from a stone (lithographic limestone) or a metal plate with a smooth surface. Lithography can be used to print text or artwork onto paper and other suitable material. His work seems to also stem of chromolithography which is a method for making multi-colour prints. This type of colour printing stemmed from the process of lithography, and it includes all types of lithography that are printed in colour. When chromolithography is used to reproduce photographs, the term photochrome is frequently used. Chromolithography is a chemical process. The process is based on the rejection of grease by water. The image is applied to stone, grained zinc or aluminium surfaces, with a grease-based crayon or ink.
He also makes great use of colour, using colours that compliment each other and go well together. i fell that the colours brings out the abstract look he was trying to create while displaying his message. He also doesn’t over fill this poster with multiple images and unnecessary text leaving well chosen negative space allowing the eyes to easily take in the key message and also appreciate his abstract work.