Advertising History Exhibit at the Pauly Friedman Art Gallery
Misericordia University’s Pauly Friedman Art Gallery exhibits “The Mark: Graphic Design and Consumer Culture Since 1800” from April 1 through May 11, 2024.
“Lydia E. Pinkham’s Grandchildren,” Knapp & Co., New York, 1889, Courtesy of the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library
Through a close look at historical prints and objects, this exhibit traces the evolution of graphic design, telling a story of how trademarks became meaningful symbols of trust and reputation in American consumer culture. In advertisements, package designs, and creative logos, advertising professionals learned to use eye-catching visuals and salient cultural references to speak to the public through print media. In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, they refined these strategies, helping to create America’s modern consumer society. This exhibit coincides with the publication of Misericordia History Professor Jennifer Black’s forthcoming book, “Branding Trust: Advertising & Trademarks in Nineteenth-Century America” (University of Pennsylvania Press, Dec. 2023).
The public is invited to a reception and exhibition tour led by co-curators Gallery Director Lalaine B. Little, Ph.D., and Jennifer Black, Ph.D. This event will also celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Pauly Friedman Art Gallery on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. Live piano music will be provided by Dean Mastrangelo.
On Thursday, April 25, at 5:30 p.m., Dr. Jennifer Black will give an author talk and book signing. Copies of “Branding Trust” will be available for purchase.
These events are free and open to the public of all ages. Light refreshments will be served.
Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Friday—Monday, 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; other times for visits or free tours are available by appointment.
Location: Misericordia University, 2nd floor Insalaco Hall; 301 Lake St, Dallas, PA, 18612
Admission: Free
Contact: (570) 674-6250; misericordia.edu/art
About the Pauly Friedman Art Gallery:
The Mission of the Pauly Friedman and MacDonald Art Galleries is to engage the Misericordia campus and community in creative experiences through visual arts exhibitions and programs that foster critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and global citizenship. Regular gallery hours are 12-7 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and 12-5 p.m. Fridays to Mondays. Other times are available by appointment. Closed during university closings and holidays. Admission is always free to all. Please call or check the gallery website, www.misericordia.edu/art, to confirm your visit. To schedule a free tour or private appointment, or for more information, contact the art gallery director, Lalaine Bangilan Little, Ph.D., at (570) 674-6250 or email llittle@misericordia.edu.
Photo Credit for article thumbnail: “Here Phoebe may… Electric light..” Advertising poster featuring Phoebe Snow, Lackawanna Railroad, c. 1895, Courtesy of Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.