Frank V, F. Dürrenmatt, Teatr Dramatyczny

“Frank V” created by Franciszek Starowieyski is a striking example of Polish poster art. Starowieyski was renowned for his imaginative and often surreal designs, which captured the essence of the plays they represent. The poster is not just promotional material for the play but also a piece of art that contributes to the cultural dialogue surrounding the play. It encapsulates the era in which it was created and the art movements happening within Poland during that time.

                Some of the art movements happening within Poland during the creation of this poster are Neo-Constructivism, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Theatrical/Performance Art. All of which find themselves appearing in Starowieyski’s posters, he creates dream-like imagery to represent the shows he is promoting in his posters. Some art being more in your face, being easy to tell what it is while others require the viewer to really observe and try to understand what they are looking at. 

                Frank V itself is a performance that has elements of musical-tragicomic satire and grotesque drama. The plot follows the main character, Frank V, who is navigating the challenges of life, identity, alienation, and societal expectations. The narrative often reflects on the absurdities of human existence. It often employs humor and satire to critique various aspects of life, which makes it relatable and engaging to the audience. Overall, the play uses grotesque imagery and absurdist elements, which reflects on the playwright Friedrich Dürrenmatt, who is known for his philosophical and often darkly humorous approach to storytelling. 

                Due to these aspects of the time period and the play itself the artistic choices that Starowieyski make more sense. With the use of a dark background that contrasts greatly with the white of the building, which looks like an official building, possibly a government building, that smoothly transitions into the skull. A reference to the societal pressures that Frank V struggled with and how they influenced their self-identity. The contrast of how the skull is only damaged on one side with the building seemingly shrouded in smoke in the dark side also represents that struggle. This piece, all in all, is a strong representation of Polish art during the era as well as the importance and relevance of Polish Theatre in the 1960s.