Travel posters have long celebrated adventure, leisure, relaxation, luxury, and exploration—enticing us with bold colors and dreamy destinations. From the late 19th century through the golden age of the mid-20th century, they promoted a vision of travel as aspirational, stylish, and full of possibility—an invitation to a new way of living.

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As an artist and avid traveler, I’ve always admired these posters—not only for their striking designs and nostalgic charm but also for the fantasy of leisure and luxury they portrayed. Yet, as a Black woman, I’ve also deeply felt what was missing. Traditional travel posters rarely, if ever, depicted Black and Brown travelers. When they did, Black and Brown figures were often reduced to grotesque colonial stereotypes rather than celebrated as beautiful adventurers, explorers, or relaxed leisure seekers.

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My work reimagines travel poster art by centering Black joy, leisure, luxury, and adventure. Through my art, I reclaim the romanticized world of vintage travel posters for all of us—affirming that Black and Brown travelers have always belonged. Hello, Olaudah Equiano, Bessie Coleman, and Matthew Henson! This project is a celebration of our presence, our journeys, and our joy.

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Process Overview

• Research & Inspiration: I analyze historical travel posters, Black travel history, and destinations to inform my designs.

• Concept Development: I use digital sketching and AI to explore concepts, composition, color palettes, and themes.

• Refinement & Detailing: Each poster is meticulously and carefully refined using digital tools such as  Photoshop & Figma to ensure richness and authenticity.

 

Tools & Technology Used

Goodnotes| Milanote| Midjourney| ChatGPT | Figma

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Stay Connected & Support

• If you want a behind-the-scenes look at my creative process, inspiration, and more, subscribe to my Substack newsletter.

• If you want to own a vintage travel poster print celebrating Black joy, shop for prints.

• If you want to commission a custom travel poster, get in touch.