Dobroliot (Fly well) 1923

Alexander Rodchenko made this lithograph, "Dobroliot," during the Soviet era. The materials used here, paper and ink, are humble, but the graphic punch is undeniable. Rodchenko’s choice of lithography allowed for the efficient production of this poster, mirroring the industrial focus of the message it conveys. Notice how the bold, geometric forms of the airplane and factory buildings dominate the composition. This reduction to simple shapes isn't just about aesthetics; it speaks to the core values of the Soviet project: industrialization and collective effort. The limited palette of black, white, and red further enhances the poster’s directness and legibility. This wasn’t just about art for art's sake. This poster was designed to encourage citizens to invest in Dobroliot, the Soviet airline, and contribute to the USSR's economic development. It collapses traditional notions of fine art and graphic design, making it clear that even a humble poster could be a powerful force in shaping society.