Bitef

The exhibition Bitef POSTERS (1967-2010) at the Museum of Theatre in Serbia is a side event accompanying 44th Bitef, which will show the festival's diversity and the authenticity of its posters. A theatre poster is the first link in the chain of announcements of, and information about, the contents and its artistic expressiveness makes it an integral part of the graphic aspect and brand of an institution. For over four decades, the graphic-visual identity of Bitef has reflected the pursuit of new theatre tendencies, At times, this pursuit can look extreme, and at other times, a more subtle eye is needed to discover the new in the seemingly classical form of a production, which, in a quiet way, belongs to the art of the future. (Jovan Ćirilov, Catalogue, Gallery 212,1968). The continuity of the 44 years-old festival confirms that it is always prepared to accept a challenge without ever abandoning the initial concept and the underlying ideas of the festival. This retrospective exhibition will offer an insight into the evolution of its recognisable identity, its different and changeable palette, original and surprising solutions further confirming Bitef integrity and the forcefulness of an authentic design of posters, which bring together and attract its old loyal and younger audiences. Bitef posters listen to the spirit of the age; record carefully all social and political changes and their lucid and multilayered graphic solutions never leave the public indifferent, time and again inviting it to expect new ideas with curiosity. Bitef posters are the testimony of the festival's history and unique interaction of theatre tendencies and new solutions in graphic design subsuming the principal festival idea which is to bring together topical annual productions, be they experimental, revolutionary, post-modern, dance, non-verbal or even traditional forms of theatrical expression. The exhibition confirms the significance of the theatre poster in the public perception and the Bitef identity. The exhibition will run from 15th September to 15th October 2010, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on working days and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays; admission is free.