Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a poster by Michael McInnerney. It dates from 1967 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1967 poster, created by Michael McInnerney, is a vibrant example of protest art from the 1960s. It was designed for the Legalise Pot Rally, a demonstration against anti-drug laws in Britain.
Subject & Meaning
The poster depicts a swirling blue smoke with emerging red and yellow shapes, and a dominant red face with a feathered headdress. The imagery reflects the psychedelic influence of the era and the protest movement's themes, including the hallucinatory effects of drugs and the generational divide.
Technique & Style
The artist employed bold, clashing colors and irregular shapes to convey a sense of dynamic energy. Thick, uneven lines contribute to the poster's chaotic, expressive feel, blending text and imagery into a cohesive visual statement.
History & Provenance
The poster was part of a series supporting the protest movement in 1960s Britain, specifically the Legalise Pot Rally held on July 16, 1967, at Speaker's Corner.
Context
The design reflects the cultural and social upheaval of the 1960s, particularly the counterculture movement's challenge to established laws and social norms.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michael McInnerney spent his days wandering London’s streets with a stack of blank posters, pasting them on walls wherever he pleased.
