Persuasion – the art of propaganda

Step back in time and explore the powerful world of WWII propaganda posters. These aren't just old advertisements; they're vivid windows into a pivotal moment in history, showcasing how nations rallied their people to fight a shared enemy.

Governments leveraged the persuasive power of commercial art, employing top illustrators to create posters that combined color, sophisticated design, clever language, and psychological techniques to communicate essential messages and inspire action.

These impactful posters were displayed everywhere—in factories, post offices, schools, libraries, and on public transport—as a crucial part of the war effort. They depicted heroism and sacrifice, encouraged recruitment, preached thrift, promoted peace, and even tackled issues like racism and women's roles in the war. The enemy was often depicted through stereotypes, as a lurking menace and the ultimate target of victory.

The success of these US and Australian posters lay in their use of everyday images and expressions, highlighting the threat war posed to cherished familiar things.