Comic Books: a History in Four Colors

May 14, 2008-August 16, 2008

 The Museum of Printing History is pleased to present Comic Books: A History in Four Colors. The exhibition presents a visual journey through the development of a uniquely American art form. From their inception during the Great Depression, comic books have been a source of entertainment, wonder, derision, and controversy. What started out as a low cost experiment has grown into a huge, multi-media cultural mainstay. See the transformation of comic books, from their humble beginnings, World War II patriotism, '50s horror and violence, and the return of the superhero, through today's wonders of art and packaging. Comic books in the show represent seminal works in the medium.

Texas Grass Prints by Dave Webb

June 12, 2008-September 6, 2008

These large scale monoprints, printed directly from the plant specimen, represent the nexus of art and science. Up to 44” in length, these prints are evocative of Asian brush painting in their simple strokes and elegant forms. The innovative monoprint technique developed by the artist enables far greater detail than other printing techniques. These Texas Grass Prints, titled by the grass genus and species names, represent a scientifically precise visual record of botanical specimens.

Modern Jackpot: Vintage Vegas Signs by Marilyn Davenport

June 30, 2008-September 13, 2008

Las Vegas conjures up images of excitement, glamour and wealth. But the original Las Vegas aged and passed on, much like the “Rat Pack” that helped made it famous. This photographic body of work celebrates memories of a heritage of greatness that now lies in a sad state of disrepair behind a locked privacy fence in stark and arid outskirts located in the un-glamorous side of Las Vegas. Captured are decades of disheveled, corroding yet still colorful haphazard displays of classic 50’s through 70’s iconic signage, graphics and fabulous font styles that are reminders of their more glorious past.