A real ‘picture post’ from me here. Our recent visit to Opernhaus Zürich coincided with an exhibition of the memorable posters designed for the company by illustrator François Berthoud over the last 13 years.

Each poster features an image of a single item linked to the work in question – on some the connection is clear, on others there might be a more oblique reference to ponder over – but all are clever and concise.

And they have created an arresting and unmistakeable identity for the venue. So, iconic in more ways than one.

However, overall they represent the house’s era under the outgoing Artistic Director, Andreas Homoki – and from the few Homoki productions I’ve now seen, the two artists seem to share certain characteristics, a spare, economic yet striking visual approach. So, the collaboration is now at an end, and from the upcoming season onwards, it’s all change.

Aside from the packed display assaulting the senses with multiple posters at once, they’re exhibited as intended.

No frames, interpretation or protective glass – simply stuck up on the walls, occasionally with tables, chairs and unsuspecting ushers in the way, and the odd wrinkle (particularly unavoidable, I imagine, in the hot temperatures).

This struck me as an ideal way to honour the forthright practicality of the designs, and my photos aim to give you a flavour of the hang.

But please bear in mind that you can see perfect digital images of many examples on the Opernhaus Zürich website, and a wide range of them are for sale in the online shop. Browse here.

This post accompanies another piece looking in more detail at two Opernhaus Zürich productions, ‘L’Orfeo’ and ‘Elias’. Read more here.

AA

All exhibition photos by AA.