I came across this room quite a while ago and I was (really) excited by it. I immediately knew that we had some similar prints on our site that could get you on your way to a similar look, but I held back on posting it because I wondered how you all might respond to my posting Chinese propaganda prints as a décor item.
My background is in art history, and in particular, it’s in Chinese art history during the period that these prints were produced, so I’m immediately drawn to these images. There isn’t a lot of information out about these types of works, and the demand for these images as art pieces is something that has only sloooowly increased since the 1980s.
Without wanting to get too historical, I’ll just say that these types of prints functioned a bit like Pop Art did in the west at the same time, and they’re brilliantly designed artworks and political tools.
These prints have a very commanding aesthetic and I was amazed by how well they integrate into a room like the one shown above. The room is filled with fun, happy colours and the print helps to bring a bit of edge without detracting from the good vibes of the room.
So with that said, I’d love to know what you think about these types of images. Do you think they work in a home setting?
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The art work is amaszing and thought provoking.
OOOPs sticky keypad. Sorry about the spelling
Hi Tina,
So glad you like it! I think it’s really interesting and that, to me, makes it a great option for art in the home.
Aesthetically the propaganda posters of Chairman Mao do have appeal. But I would be hesitant to have this displayed at home as it may send the wrong message to the wee lads and lasses. You can’t always explain how it is just art for art’s sake and how it has absolutely nothing to do with the cultural revolution in China. This is something I would have considered decorating my wall in college.
Hello!
I definitely see what you mean. I think it will depend a lot from person to person whether or not this would work. It’s definitely a conversation piece. Perhaps with something like this, you’d have to be ready to talk about it with your guests if they have questions!
Loved that first room!
Me too! Looks like a cosy corner
I never would have thought that I’d like these up in a room, but the pictures show that they actually can look really good. I still think they’d be a bit too political for my taste though.
Hi Matt,
You’re right– the political undertones are definitely not for everyone!
Love it! My brother lives in China and we took a trip in 2007 for his wedding and came home with a stack of old propaganda posters (probably fake, but still very cool). We debated hanging one in our home because we were not exactly sure what it said and were also afraid of the statement it might make to people passing through who do not know us well. We decided to frame and hang it in our TV room which is a semi private space for us and LOVE it…it is a bold graphic statement and mixes easily with our other art. Thanks for posting about this!
I’m so glad you like this. It’s definitely not for everyone but I really love this sort of thing! x