Track 16 Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition of CYRK: Polish circus posters. The exhibition runs from February 17, 2007, through March 10, 2007, with an opening reception on Saturday, February 17, from 6 to 9 P.M. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M.

CYRK posters with their most recognizable subjects and unmatched popularity, are the quintessential posters of the golden age of the Polish School of Posters from1945 (the end of World War II) through 1989 (the fall of Communism). During this time, the Polish Government financially supported and encouraged poster art. Posters became the primary art form of the nation. The art of Polish posters attained international fame, becoming established as the best in contemporary/vintage poster art. For approximately a quarter century, CYRK posters achieved a remarkable artistic quality as well as an unmatched degree of popularity.

Contemporary CYRK posters were first created in 1962, when the state circus agency, the United Entertainment Enterprises (ZPR), commissioned leading artists to develop a modern approach to the circus poster. They wanted a revised look for the circus poster to parallel the circus’ efforts to upgrade its image. These new CYRK posters were not to be advertisements presenting concrete objects, people, or facts; but rather, they were to be artistic renderings reminding the public that an exciting and modern circus was coming to town. Based usually on a single theme of common symbols––jugglers, clowns, and animals–their metaphors and allusions created a wonderful artistic expression that should not only be viewed, but should also be read, pondered, and digested.