This manifesto dates from 1931 and was created by Mario Gros, an Italian designer, painter and graphic entrepreneur based in Turin.
Gros trained early as an engraver at the Accademia Albertina in Turin under Giovanni Guarlotti and Romolo Bernardi, then established himself as a chromatic engraver and advertising cartellonist. By the interwar years, he held a directing position at a specialist poster-printing company, where he designed promotional materials for major film producers including Ambrosio Film and Pittaluga. His film posters featured celebrated actresses of the era and include notable works for Atlantide (featuring Brigitte Helm), The Passion of Joan of Arc (with Renée Falconetti), visualizations for The King of Kings, and the Italian poster for the first American sound film, The Jazz Singer. In 1925, Gros co-founded Gros Monti & C., a small printing enterprise in the San Paolo district of Turin.
About Mario Gros
Mario Gros (1888–1977) was a draughtsman, painter and graphic industrialist who played a significant role in Italian poster design during the early twentieth century. His career spanned engraving, chromatic printing and commercial cartellonism, establishing him as a central figure in the interwar graphic arts sector.
Details
- Creator: Mario Gros
- Year: 1931
- Origin: Turin, Italy
- Category: Poster design, graphic art
- Period: Interwar era
Frequently asked questions
Who was Mario Gros?
Mario Gros (1888–1977) was an Italian graphic designer, painter and entrepreneur from Turin. He trained as an engraver at the Accademia Albertina and became a prominent cartellonist, designing film posters for major production companies during the interwar period.
What kind of work did Gros specialize in?
Gros worked primarily as a commercial cartellonist and poster designer. He created promotional materials for film studios, designed posters featuring renowned actresses, and co-founded a specialist poster-printing company in Turin in 1925.
What was notable about Gros’s film poster work?
Gros designed posters for significant films of the era, including the Italian poster for The Jazz Singer, the first American sound film, and promotional materials for works featuring celebrated actresses such as Brigitte Helm and Renée Falconetti.