About the Artist
Created by an anonymous artist, this 1936 poster is a product of the American WPA era, when government-sponsored art projects aimed to make culture and education widely accessible. The Works Progress Administration commissioned artists to design public posters that promoted civic institutions and encouraged community engagement during the Great Depression.
These posters were not just decorative—they were intended as tools for public service, blending graphic design with educational outreach. Today, they stand as both historical records and examples of how art can serve a broader social purpose.
The Artwork
This Visit the Zoo poster was designed to invite city residents to experience the zoo as a space for learning and recreation. In the 1930s, such posters played a key role in making cultural and natural institutions feel open and welcoming, even in challenging times. The focus on a striking bird subject connects the idea of leisure with curiosity about wildlife, reflecting the era’s emphasis on accessible education and public enjoyment.
As a vintage print, it continues to embody the spirit of community outreach and appreciation for the natural world, making it a meaningful addition for those interested in wildlife and civic history.
Style & Characteristics
The poster features tall, long-legged cranes rendered in a streamlined, graphic style characteristic of 1930s design. The birds are depicted in clear, bold silhouettes, with simplified forms that enhance visibility and impact from a distance. The composition balances image and text, using negative space to create a sense of clarity and order.
The color palette is warm and understated, with beige and cream backgrounds offset by cool blue accents and subtle neutral tones. A touch of orange-red adds a lively focal point. This calm yet striking aesthetic appeals to collectors of animal wall art and those drawn to vintage advertising posters.
In Interior Design
This vintage zoo poster brings graphic elegance to entryways, offices, or living rooms, where its clean lines and balanced composition offer visual interest without overwhelming the space. It pairs well with mid-century modern or minimalist interiors, especially when echoed with natural materials like wood or linen.
For a cohesive look, coordinate with blue or beige textiles and add a small accent in orange or red. The poster also integrates seamlessly into a gallery wall alongside blue tone prints or other vintage pieces, enhancing both modern and classic decor schemes.
