Revolution in the Head

Bonnie McLean

Bonnie MacLean was an American artist, well known for her posters in the 1960s and 70s. She was one of the only women of prominence in the poster genre and took inspiration from Wes Wilson after he quit in 1967, so much so that her early work was based on Wilson’s work. Most notably, the influence from Wilson’s work came from the text she used within her work, as much like Wilson’s own work, was vibrant and in many cases difficult to read at first glance, encouraging the audience to look closer at the pieces to find out which band they were advertising for. Similarly, MacLean’s colour schemes were very reminiscent of Wilson’s work, following a very vibrant colour scheme, whilst too following similar colour palettes to some of Wilson’s work. 

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Below - Bonnie MacLean Posters archived by Classic Posters.com 

Above - Wes Wilson Posters archived by Classic Posters.com 

​Although Wes Wilson’s influences on Bonnie’s work is clear, there too are differences, for MacLean was able to develop her own style of typography, setting them aside from Wilson’s work. In addition to this. MacLean’s work appeared to be far more illustrative than that of Wilson’s work, combining both graphic design and illustrations, whilst using a composition and colour schemes that would ensure the focus and more intriguing aspects of the piece would remain to be the information upon the posters. MacLean also drew inspiration for her work from other movements, such as Art Nouveau, with the free flowing of text and images that are reminiscent of the earlier movement present in her work. 

Artists such as Bonnie MacLean defined the psychedelic art scene of the 60s and early 70s, defined by its free flowing forms and vibrant colour schemes. MacLean herself was herself well known, not only for being one of the only female artists in this field of work But MacLean also grew with her own style that, although heavily influenced by Wes Wilson, evolved into something unique, and something that many may consider more appealing due to to the combination of graphic and illustrative influences both being present within her work.