Art of the poster > Flat colour technique

Art for All

During the first half of the twentieth century posters were the most direct means of reaching a wide public. The Underground differed from other commercial organizations both in the quality and variety of the designs produced. As a result, the Tube was transformed into 'London's longest art gallery', with styles to suit all tastes.

The poster programme was the inspiration of one man: Frank Pick, later London Transport's first Chief Executive. He was passionate about good design and its vital importance to a well-run business.

'There is room in posters for all styles. It is possible to move from the most literal representation to the wildest impressionism as long as the subject remains understandable to the man in the street.'
Frank Pick, Managing Director of the Underground, 1927.

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