"Paper, Place, Power": Detroit's Scarab Club Celebrates the Global Impact of Posters

The Scarab Club in Detroit is currently hosting "Paper, Place, Power: The Global Language of Posters," an exhibition running from September 12 to October 5, 2025, that showcases the profound impact of poster art across various cultural and political landscapes.

This exhibition brings together a diverse collection of posters that span themes such as music, movies, social justice, and politics, underscoring the poster's role as a universal medium for expression and communication. Featuring works from esteemed collections including Signal Return, Poster Territory, Wayne State University, 1xRun, Detroit Designers Group, and Black Cannon, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at how posters have been used to convey powerful messages across different eras and movements.

The Scarab Club, located at 217 Farnsworth Street in Detroit, is a historic arts organization established in 1907. It has been a cornerstone in promoting the fine arts within the Detroit community. The exhibition is free to the public, with visiting hours on Thursdays from 2-9 pm and Fridays to Sundays from noon to 5 pm.

Poster art has a rich history of serving as a medium for expression, from inciting political uprisings to promoting artistic events. The bold graphics of poster design have been used for centuries to reflect cultural and historical significance.

This exhibition underscores the enduring power of posters as a form of communication and art. By featuring works from various collections, it offers a comprehensive look at how posters have been used to convey messages across different themes and eras.

Established in 1907, The Scarab Club began as an informal association named the Hopkin Club, after founder Robert Hopkin. It was renamed in 1913 and has since been dedicated to promoting the fine arts in Detroit. The current clubhouse, designed by member and architect Lancelot Sukert, opened its doors on October 5, 1928. The building is adorned with artworks contributed by members over the decades, including tile sculptures from Pewabic Pottery.

"To me, posters are an invitation, an entry point for people to fall in love with art and even begin collecting," said Donna Jackson, Scarab Club Gallery Manager.

The exhibition underscores the enduring power of posters as a form of communication and art. By featuring works from various collections, it offers a comprehensive look at how posters have been used to convey messages across different themes and eras.

Visitors are encouraged to experience the rich history and impact of poster art firsthand by attending the exhibition. Such exhibitions play a significant role in fostering community engagement and appreciation for the arts.