Artist: BORIS BUĆAN (1947- )
Size: 78 1/8 x 79 1/2 in./198.5 x 202 cm
Condition: A.
Printer:
Reference: Ref: V & A, p. 67 & cover; Saunders & Timmers, p. 58; PAI-XXXVIII, 240
Key Words: Contemporary; Dance; Animals

“Firebird” & “Petrushka.” 1983.
This spectacular six-sheet silk-screened Bućan graphic conjuring was utilized by the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb to promote their 1983 productions of Stravinsky’s “The Firebird” and “Petrushka.” The poster, described by the editors of “The Power of the Poster” as “a stunningly original creation” (p. 67), is at once bizarre, enthralling, and sumptuous. In all, it’s a perfect design for the mythic flights of fancy undertaken by the Stravinsky ballets. It’s also an amazing study in contrasting geometry and stark coloring, though it’s difficult to pin down precisely what effect Bućan meant to achieve with his androgynous, vaguely Egyptian avian creature poised atop red sling-back pumps. Obviously one associates it with “The Firebird,” but it’s more austere than fiery, and there isn’t a trace of “Petrushka’s” puppetry. But it is unquestionably provocative, and when the issue is attracting the attention of harried commuters, perhaps provocation is more than enough.