About the Collection

The Carolyn W. Thomas Memorial Olympic Poster Collection is a gallery of nearly 200 pieces of Olympic poster art, showcasing the world's most highly sought-after posters from the Olympic Games. These posters are a celebration of the athleticism, spirit, and global unity of the Olympic Games, and are a must-see for any enthusiast. This collection is a tribute to Carolyn W. Thomas that has been entrusted to Point Loma Nazarene University Art + Design to preserve their legacy for the enjoyment and education of future generations.

An Olympic History: A Century of Art and Culture

In 1896, In Athens Greece, the first modern-day Olympic Games took place. Since the beginning of this worldwide athletic event, it has become a cultural phenomenon that has evoked pride, comradery, and sportsmanship. However, one of the unspoken heroes of the Olympic Games is the artists who created posters for events over the last century. While the games have brought thousands of athletes from around the world together, it has also brought together a powerful collection of artists beginning in 1896 through modern day. 

This exhibition surveys the history of the games and the influential art that accompanied them. From the late 19th century through the modern-day we can witness the cultural and artistic movements that impacted our world at large. Each of these works, while may have originally been created as a promotional tool for the games, eventually evolved into  a time capsule of world culture and artistic movements from over the years. The posters speak to a greater narrative than just advertising and promotion, but rather an event that unites the world together, both through sports and the arts. 

This exhibition would not be possible without the contribution of Paul and Ann Thomas who have donated their inspiring collection of Olympic posters to the University.

Click the links below to view 10 of the top pieces in the collection.

Olympic Poster Collection