The 1981 Intourist poster "We Invite you for a Tour - Kyiv - 1,500 Years" is more than a celebration of Kyiv's rich history; it's a symbol of the Soviet Union's strategic efforts to open its doors to Western tourists. Intourist, the official state travel agency of the USSR, played a pivotal role in showcasing the cultural grandeur of Soviet cities, including Kyiv, to the Western world. This poster, created in the Ukrainian SSR, was part of a broader campaign to foster cultural exchange and present a positive image of the Soviet lifestyle.
With vibrant imagery and dominant blue and yellow hues, the poster invites viewers to explore Kyiv's legendary founding by three brothers, Kyi, Shchek, and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid. It highlights the city's Golden Age as the center of Kievan Rus' in the 10th–12th centuries, its decline after being pillaged in 1169, and its transformation into a provincial capital under various powerful neighbors.
Kyiv's history as a major political and cultural center for the Ukrainian nation, its role in preserving Orthodox Christianity traditions, and its resurgence during the Russian industrial revolution are all encapsulated in this artwork. The poster also reflects Kyiv's status as the capital of Soviet Ukraine and its enduring significance following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Intourist's mission was not merely to attract tourists but to build bridges between the Soviet Union and the West. It stands as a testament to Intourist's innovative approach to diplomacy through art, echoing the broader implications of cultural connection, historical pride, and the power of tourism to transcend political boundaries.
Unknown Artist
We Invite you for a Tour - Kyiv - 1,500 Years, 1981
MEDIUM
Offset lithograph on paper
DIMENSIONS
/
85 H x 56 W
CONDITION
B | Fine - Minor signs of wear