affisch

Affisch is a printed notice or poster designed for public display. In Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish usage, the term refers to a large sheet of paper or vinyl carried by text and imagery and intended to be posted on walls, lamp posts, or notice boards to advertise events, convey information, or persuade an audience. The word is cognate with the French affiche and the German Affiche and appears in several Northern European languages with similar meanings.

Historically, affischer were a primary channel of mass communication before mass media and remain a common tool for advertising and public messaging. They were used to promote performances, products, political campaigns, and public notices, and their conspicuous placement in urban spaces made them a recognizable feature of city life. Advances in printing technology allowed color, faster production, and wider distribution, enhancing both reach and impact.

Design and production of an affisch typically include a bold headline, a central image or graphic, essential details (date, time, venue, price), and a clear call to action. Effective posters employ a grid-based layout, strong typography, and color contrast to maximize legibility at a distance. Outdoor affischer often use durable materials such as coated paper or vinyl and weather-resistant inks, with attachment methods ranging from paste and glue to tape or mounting adhesives. Digital printing has become common for both short-run and large-scale poster campaigns.

Distribution and regulation vary by country and city, with rules governing permitted posting sites, deadlines, and removal. In addition to commercial use, affischer may serve cultural, political, or artistic purposes, including street art and public information campaigns.