New Exhibition Traces Germany's Political Posters from 1918 to the 1990s
A new exhibition exploring the history of political posters in Germany has opened at the Hessian State Parliament. Titled 'Under Pressure: Political Posters', it traces the evolution of campaign design from 1918 to the early 1990s. The show was launched by Parliament President Astrid Wallmann during the Parliamentary Cultural Evening.
The exhibition is divided into two parts. The first section, hosted at the State Museum Wiesbaden, presents 80 posters from the Weimar Republic era (1918–1933). The second part, displayed at the Hessian State Parliament, focuses on posters from 1945 to the first state elections after German reunification.
Early postwar posters (1949–1950s) were conservative in style, filled with dense text and realistic illustrations. They mirrored Konrad Adenauer's era, often carrying anti-communist messages. By the 1960s and 1970s, design shifted dramatically. Influenced by student protests and movements like the APO, posters became bolder, using symbols, photography, and pop-art techniques. Satire and striking visuals replaced lengthy slogans, particularly in Green Party campaigns. Guided tours of the exhibition will run from March 20 to April 11. On April 11, the public can view the show for free during the *Short Night of Museums and Galleries*—no registration required. A 144-page catalogue, produced with the Museum Wiesbaden, is also available. A panel discussion on the influence of election posters took place, featuring experts René Grohnert and Timon Gremmels. Parliament President Wallmann joined the conversation, moderated by Dr. Peter Forster. The exhibition is part of the *World Design Capital Frankfurt Rhine-Main 2026* programme, organised in collaboration with the State Museum of Wiesbaden.
The exhibition highlights how political posters evolved alongside Germany's social and cultural changes. Visitors can explore the shift from text-heavy designs to bold, graphic campaigning. The show remains open for guided tours until April 11, with a special late-night viewing on April 11.
