This week I visited the Whitechapel Gallery Archives, where Archivist Gary Haines found some fascinating press cuttings, personal letters and exhibition images for me to study. Gary was interested to see the poster as the Whitechapel Gallery don't have a copy in their archives, so it seems my find is quite rare!
I discovered that the poster design and print was by Mountain & Molehill.12 posters from this series (commissioned for the gallery between 1960-68) are featured in the book 'Graphic Century' edited by Hannah Vaughan. Here are some examples from the book:
I found many interesting documents which helped shape a backstory for the poster, such as this handwritten letter from Ida Kar finalising the title for the show.
A document showing last minute changes to the exhibition title:
An invite to the private view or 'Cocktail Party' in March 1960, where sparkling wine and caviar was served:
My time at the Whitechapel Gallery Archives has increased my fascination with the poster and with Ida Kar's work. So expect more research-related posts soon!
By great coincidence, Kar's work is being shown at The National Portrait Gallery from March 2011 in 'Ida Kar: Bohemian Photographer' www.npg.org.uk
