About the Artist
Arlington Gregg was an American commercial artist active during the golden age of illustrated publicity, when museums, parks, and civic attractions relied on striking graphics to engage the public. Gregg's poster work reflects the interwar era's embrace of streamlined forms, bold lettering, and instantly recognizable imagery, all designed for busy urban spaces and public venues.
For those interested in vintage American design, Gregg's work captures the transition when modern graphic language became part of everyday visual culture. His posters are often collected alongside classic advertising posters and other destination-themed prints from the 1930s.
The Artwork
This Visit the Brookfield Zoo poster was created in 1937 as part of a campaign to promote the zoo as a modern destination for families. At the time, zoos were being reimagined as civic institutions that offered both entertainment and educational value, inviting visitors to experience wildlife from around the globe in a carefully curated environment.
The poster served as both an invitation and an emblem of the era's optimism, presenting a zoo visit as an accessible adventure. It reflects how American cities used graphic design to encourage wholesome leisure activities and foster a sense of community engagement during the interwar years.
Style & Characteristics
The design centers on a stylized panda, depicted with bold, high-contrast shapes that ensure visibility from a distance. Clean, prominent lettering and simplified background elements create a strong silhouette, embodying the clarity and directness typical of 1930s public posters.
The palette is limited to green, black, white, and a touch of red, giving the composition a lively and approachable feel. The mood is cheerful and inviting, making it a standout example of vintage animal poster art from the period. For more animal-themed pieces, explore our animals collection or discover complementary works in green tones.
In Interior Design
This poster brings playful sophistication to living rooms, entryways, or home offices, and is especially charming in nurseries or children's spaces where animal imagery delights. It pairs well with mid-century modern furnishings, minimalist decor, or eclectic gallery walls anchored by bold graphics.
To echo the artwork's palette, incorporate greens and soft whites in textiles, and add black accents for contrast. A hint of red can provide a rhythmic touch, tying the room together with vintage flair.
