Sybil Andrews and Cyril Power 1933

Context

This was a poster that was commissioned by London transport to advertise the Wimbledon Championships. It was a part of a series promoting sporting events that people were able to travel to using the London Underground. 

Idea 

Andrews and Power clearly aimed to provide a dynamic image of a tennis match, capturing the rapid movement and athleticism of the professional players. With the Wimbledon Championships at the focal point of the poster they have managed to provide an advertisement that is eye-catching and would appeal to a wide audience.

Image 

It would seem that Andrews and Power used a combination of charcoal and pastel as the medium for this poster. The lack of solid colour that these materials provide creates a blurring affect that adds an illusion of movement; which is further emphasised through the long fluid lines and posture of the players. The angular and structural shapes of the figures also suggests their strength and athleticism. The simple muted colour palette of black, brown and cream works well to create a clear, classic and sophisticated design. The clarity of communication within this advertisement is also further aided through the concise nature of the composition - using ‘Wimbledon’ as the net working to put the championships at the focal point of the poster.