Long before digital media, conscientious campaigners have used the power of print to raise awareness and support causes. Over the years, this advocacy has helped promote civil rights, give voice to marginalized groups, protect the environment, and even save lives. As you take a tour of public service announcements in the slideshow below, see which causes and compositions impact you the most, and why they're effective.
|
This 1964 poster from the Centers for Disease Control is an early example of an awareness campaign. It encourages viewers to wash their hands by using a friendly, inviting cartoon character and a helpful diagram at the bottom.
This composite image is aimed at teenagers who might be considering smoking, and is highly effective at getting the attention of that target audience. No one wants to be seen as a "butthead", and this dirty and unattractive portrayal contrasts with more glamorous depictions of smoking seen in advertising and movies.
This stunning poster from 1940 is beautiful, simple, and highly effective. Released by the U.S. Forest Service, the wonderful artistry, elegant composition, and warm color palette conveys the feeling that the our natural habitats are sacred and fragile-- something that may not have been on the minds of many people before modern environmentalism.
This banner ad is aimed at children, and uses a well-known celebrity to advocate for exploring nature. The bright colors, happy faces, and cartoonish teddy bear are all playful and inviting, making the outdoors seem magical and fun. |
 |
Only You
Some of the most iconic and memorable public service campaigns of all time come from the Ad Council, which works with advocacy groups and organizations to create messages and media that stick. Explore their body of work below and get inspired for your own creation for this unit.
The Ad Council
