Grenoble ville olympique 1968

The 1968 original poster "Grenoble Ville Olympique", printed by Georges Lang in Paris, is a significant piece of cultural history that captures the excitement and global attention surrounding the 1968 Winter Olympic Games held in Grenoble, France. The poster not only promoted the city as an Olympic host but also showcased Grenoble's emergence as a modern, dynamic urban center capable of hosting such a prestigious international event.

In the lead-up to the 1968 Winter Olympics, Grenoble underwent significant transformation. The city invested in infrastructure, creating new sports venues, transport systems, and facilities to accommodate both athletes and spectators. This poster is emblematic of Grenoble's ambitious modernization efforts, positioning the city as a symbol of progress and innovation in the context of the 20th century Olympic movement.

The poster, printed by Georges Lang, a renowned Parisian printer known for his work with contemporary artists and designers, is likely characterized by bold and vivid graphic design elements that reflect the style of the era. The use of clean lines, modern typography, and vibrant colors would have been typical of Olympic promotional materials of the time, capturing the optimism and energy associated with the event. Posters like these played an important role in promoting the Olympics not just as a sporting competition, but as a celebration of culture, unity, and international cooperation.

The 1968 Winter Olympics was a landmark event, not only because of the athletes who competed but also because of the technological advancements that were on display, such as the first-ever use of computer-generated timekeeping for events. Grenoble, situated at the foot of the French Alps, provided a dramatic backdrop for the games, combining natural beauty with cutting-edge sporting facilities. The games saw memorable moments in winter sports history, including figure skating, alpine skiing, and ice hockey, which were broadcast globally, bringing the spectacle of the Winter Olympics to a broader audience than ever before.

This poster is a reflection of that historic moment when Grenoble stepped onto the world stage. Collectors value it not only for its visual appeal but also for its association with the Olympic legacy and the historical significance of the 1968 Games. As an artifact, it symbolizes a specific moment in time when sport, technology, and urban development converged in a city that was reshaping itself to meet the demands of the future.

Georges Lang’s involvement as the printer adds an additional layer of interest to this poster. Lang was known for producing high-quality prints for a variety of cultural and artistic projects, making this piece not just a promotional item but also a work of art in its own right.

For collectors, this poster represents a valuable piece of Olympic memorabilia, encapsulating both the sporting achievements of the 1968 Winter Games and the cultural and social transformations of Grenoble during this period. It stands as a testament to the power of design and imagery in promoting major international events and their lasting impact on host cities and nations.

Original Poster

Sport - Olympic Games - Rhône-Alpes

Printed by Georges Lang in Paris

Good condition, traces of folds