Seymour Chwast (1989) – Droits de l’Homme “Liberty” – Original Human Rights Bicentennial Poster

Images Internationales pour les Droits de l’Homme et du Citoyen – Seymour Chwast (1989)

This original 1989 poster by Seymour Chwast (b. 1931) was created for Images Internationales pour les Droits de l’Homme et du Citoyen, an international series published by Artis 89 in Paris to commemorate the bicentennial of the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.

Chwast’s bold and conceptual image features the scattered letters of the word “LIBERTY,” symbolizing one of the Declaration’s central ideals. The fragmented typography reflects both the fragility and resilience of freedom—a theme that continues to resonate in contemporary culture. Printed by Imprimerie Marchand, this poster exemplifies Chwast’s distinctive visual language: witty, graphic, and socially engaged.

A founding member of Push Pin Studios (with Milton Glaser, Edward Sorel, and Reynold Ruffins), Chwast helped redefine modern illustration and poster design through a unique blend of playfulness and commentary. His contribution to the Artis 89 series stands as a statement of artistic liberty and human dignity.

Artist: Seymour Chwast
Title: Images Internationales pour les Droits de l’Homme et du Citoyen (Liberty)
Date: 1989
Printer / Publisher: Artis 89 / Imprimerie Marchand, Paris
Series: International Images for Human and Citizen’s Rights – Bicentennial of the Declaration
Print Type: Offset Lithograph
Dimensions: 33 × 23.5 in (84 × 60 cm)
Condition: Excellent “A” – Original issue
Country: France
Category: Human Rights / Commemorative Poster / 20th-Century Graphic Art

Comments:
Issued in 1989 as part of the Images Internationales pour les Droits de l’Homme et du Citoyen series celebrating the bicentennial of the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man. Chwast’s Liberty design reimagines one of humanity’s most essential principles through expressive typography and minimalist power. Guaranteed original printing, not a reproduction.