The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association

The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association (IVPDA) - Poster Associations and Groups 

The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association (IVPDA) is a global organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and trade of original vintage posters. Established to maintain ethical standards and provide a trusted network for poster enthusiasts, collectors, and dealers, the IVPDA has become an authoritative body in the world of vintage posters. This article explores the history, mission, significance, and activities of the IVPDA, while shedding light on the enduring charm of original posters across categories such as travel, advertising, propaganda, and cinema.

History of the IVPDA

The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association was founded in 1996 by a group of experienced poster dealers. Recognizing the growing interest in vintage posters and the need for a professional body to uphold ethical practices, the founders set out to establish a global network that would serve both dealers and collectors.

Prior to the IVPDA’s creation, poster collecting was somewhat fragmented, with limited avenues for ensuring the authenticity, quality, and ethical sale of vintage posters. The formation of the association provided a unified platform where professional dealers could share expertise, promote transparency, and instill confidence among collectors worldwide.

Over the past three decades, the IVPDA has grown into a trusted organization, encompassing members from North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Today, it plays a pivotal role in preserving the history and artistry of vintage posters while supporting collectors in acquiring authentic pieces.

Mission and Objectives

The IVPDA’s mission is centered around three core pillars: preservation, promotion, and trade. These objectives reflect the association’s commitment to celebrating and protecting the legacy of vintage posters:

• Preservation: The IVPDA emphasizes the importance of preserving original posters as historical artifacts and works of art. Members advocate for proper conservation techniques, ensuring posters remain intact for future generations.
• Promotion: By raising awareness of vintage posters’ cultural and artistic value, the IVPDA promotes these works to new audiences, including collectors, designers, historians, and art enthusiasts. The association hosts events, exhibitions, and online resources to showcase the beauty and historical significance of posters.
• Trade: The IVPDA establishes high standards for ethical trading, ensuring buyers receive authentic, original posters. Dealers who join the IVPDA adhere to a strict code of ethics, guaranteeing transparency and trustworthiness in all transactions. By adhering to these principles, the IVPDA has positioned itself as the premier organization for vintage poster dealers and enthusiasts.

The Appeal of Vintage Posters

Vintage posters are more than decorative pieces; they are windows into the cultural, artistic, and social histories of the 19th and 20th centuries. The IVPDA celebrates posters as unique works of art that capture the essence of their time.

A Brief History of Poster Art

The invention of lithographic printing in the late 19th century revolutionized the world of graphic design and advertising. Artists like Jules Chéret, often called the "father of the modern poster," used lithography to create vibrant, eye-catching posters for products, events, and performances.

Posters became an essential tool for:

• Advertising: Businesses used posters to promote products such as bicycles, beverages, and fashion.
• Travel and Tourism: Railways, airlines, and ocean liners commissioned posters to entice travelers.
• Propaganda: Governments used posters during wartime to rally support, encourage enlistment, and promote patriotism.
• Cinema and Entertainment: Film studios and theaters created visually striking posters to attract audiences.
• From Art Nouveau to Art Deco, Modernism, and beyond, posters reflected evolving artistic movements and changing societal tastes.

Categories of Vintage Posters Promoted by the IVPDA
The IVPDA encompasses a diverse array of vintage posters, celebrating their artistry and historical importance across categories:

• Travel Posters: Travel posters from the early 20th century promoted railways, airlines, and cruise lines. Companies like British Railways and Air France commissioned artists to create romanticized depictions of destinations. Artists such as A.M. Cassandre and Roger Broders created iconic travel posters that remain highly collectible today.
• Advertising Posters: Advertising posters promoted consumer products, from luxury goods to everyday items like food and beverages. Brands like Coca-Cola, Perrier, and Benedictine produced posters featuring bold designs and innovative typography. The posters often reflected artistic trends like Art Nouveau and Art Deco.
• Propaganda Posters: Propaganda posters were especially prominent during World War I and World War II. Nations used posters to influence public sentiment, encourage enlistment, and promote specific ideologies. Iconic examples include the British “Your Country Needs You” and the American “We Can Do It!” posters.
• Cinema Posters: Movie posters became popular in the early 20th century as silent films and Hollywood productions emerged. Designs often featured bold imagery and dramatic typography to captivate audiences. Vintage cinema posters are now highly valued for their artistic and nostalgic qualities.
• Exhibition and Event Posters: Posters promoting art exhibitions, theater productions, and music performances are celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and historical relevance. Notable artists like Henri Toulouse-Lautrec created iconic posters for cabaret performances in Paris.

The IVPDA promotes and celebrates each of these categories, ensuring their significance is recognized and preserved.

IVPDA Membership and Standards

The IVPDA has established a stringent set of ethical guidelines for its members. By upholding these standards, the organization guarantees trust, professionalism, and authenticity in poster trading.

• Criteria for Membership - Membership is open to professional vintage poster dealers with proven expertise and experience in the field. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices and a deep understanding of poster art.
• Code of Ethics. All IVPDA members agree to: Sell Only Original Posters: Members must guarantee that all posters sold are original, not reproductions or fakes. Ensure Transparency: Dealers must provide clear and accurate descriptions of posters, including condition, provenance, and authenticity. Promote Preservation: Members advocate for proper poster care, conservation, and display methods.

Collectors who purchase posters from IVPDA members can do so with confidence, knowing they are acquiring genuine, high-quality pieces.

Events and Exhibitions

The IVPDA actively supports events and exhibitions that showcase vintage posters. These events attract collectors, historians, and art enthusiasts from around the world, offering opportunities to discover and acquire rare posters.

Notable Events

• International Poster Fairs: Events held in cities like New York, Paris, and London provide platforms for dealers and collectors to connect.
• Special Exhibitions: Collaborations with museums and galleries highlight the historical and artistic value of posters.
• Online Exhibitions: The IVPDA’s website features curated selections of posters from member dealers, allowing global audiences to explore and appreciate poster art.

Educational Resources

The IVPDA is committed to educating the public about vintage posters’ artistic and historical importance. Its website, IVPDA.com, offers resources for collectors, including:

• Guides to Poster Collecting: Tips for identifying original posters, assessing condition, and understanding poster grading systems.
• History of Poster Art: Articles exploring the evolution of poster design, key artists, and major artistic movements.
• Dealer Directory: A directory of IVPDA members allows collectors to connect with trusted dealers worldwide.
• News and Events: Updates on poster fairs, exhibitions, and auctions.
• These resources serve as valuable tools for both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of vintage posters.

The Impact of the IVPDA

The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association has played a transformative role in preserving and promoting vintage poster art. Its global network of dealers, educational initiatives, and commitment to ethical practices have elevated posters from ephemeral advertisements to celebrated works of art.

The IVPDA’s efforts have not only fostered trust among collectors but have also inspired renewed interest in poster art among contemporary audiences. By preserving these cultural artifacts, the IVPDA ensures that future generations can appreciate the beauty, history, and artistry of vintage posters.

Conclusion

The International Vintage Poster Dealers Association (IVPDA) stands as a pillar of the vintage poster community. By promoting preservation, ethical trade, and education, the IVPDA celebrates the enduring legacy of posters across travel, advertising, propaganda, cinema, and art.

Through its global network and resources, the IVPDA ensures that vintage posters are recognized not just as collectibles but as timeless works of art that reflect society, culture, and design. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the IVPDA remains the trusted authority for exploring and acquiring these treasured artifacts.

Website: https://www.ivpda.com