The Century 21 Exposition (also known as the Seattle World's Fair) ran from April 21 to October 21, 1962. Nearly 10 million people attended the fair. The exposition's displays and attractions were centered around themes of science and technology, but included showcases for a variety of world cultures. The fair commission several area artists to promote the fair in guidebooks, maps, and posters.
This official fair poster highlights the unique architecture and styling of several scenes around the fair and was created by Seattle artist and illustrator Irwin Caplan (1919-2007). Caplan is best known for two nationally syndicated cartoons, "Famous Last Words" and "48 States of Mind," but was a founder of Graphic Studios, a Seattle-based commercial art and advertising company, and taught at University of Washington School of Art and Seattle Central Community College.
Text on poster: Printed in U.S.A, Copyright 1962 Artprints Inc., Official World's Fair Poster K-2 Artist's signature: Irwin Caplan
Caption information source: "Artist Irwin 'Cap' Caplan Drew From His Humor, Imagination to Find Success," by Karen Gaudette, The Seattle Times, February 25, 2007.
Physical Description: 1 poster : color ; 20.25 x 29 in.
Additional Information: Digital copy of this item available thanks to funding from a 2016 Institute for Museum and Library Services grant. View the finding aid for this collection at https://archiveswest.orbiscascade.org/ark:80444/xv67358
Credit: MOHAI, Robert D. Ashley Century 21 Collection, 1987.59.21
