Tamástslikt Cultural Institute will open a locally curated exhibit, Art of War: The Historical Impact of Posters 1939-1945. Opening day is Friday, Nov. 7 and is free to the public.
The iconic “I Want You For the U.S. Army” image of Uncle Sam is one of the most memorable of all war posters in the US. With his index finger pointed straight at the viewer, it’s undeniably the best known picture of Uncle Sam ever produced. And it was also one part of the most effective government-message campaigns ever waged.
The poster is just one of 74 in the show which runs through Jan. 10, 2015. The posters range from simple messages to evocative works of art.
One of the most effective tools for shaping public opinion was the combination of powerful words and images found in posters created during World War I and World War II–posters that were strategically targeted to achieve precise and specific goals. These posters are also beautiful and significant pieces of 20th century American art.
No one knows all this better than Jim Givan of Yakima, Wash. Even before beginning his life-long career in the Marine Corps, Jim began collecting war posters. His wife Sheron joined him and, as the collection grew, so did Jim’s knowledge of the military history that gives meaning to each one.
The collection represents a significant investment for the Givans. Though four million Uncle Sam posters were produced, they are now so scarce they fetch up to $20,000. The average World War I poster sells for $1,500, Givan said. He does not intend to sell any.
“I buy, I preserve, I display. I don’t sell. I want them to last another 100 years,” Givan said
Givan will be speaking at the Nov. 11 Pepsi Primetime @ the Museum starting at 6 p.m., which is free and open to the public.
For more information, visit the Tamástslikt webiste.
