Bidspirit auction | Smile Things Could Be Worse

Smile Things Could Be Worse Richard Nixon Blacklight Poster, 1971 - A vintage blacklight poster titled 'Smile, Things Could Be Worse, ' designed by Joe Petagno and copyrighted by Saladin in 1971. This unmounted paper poster features a psychedelic and Pop Art style, characterized by bold lines and vibrant, contrasting colors, including fluorescent inks visible under UV light. The central motif depicts a caricatured figure resembling former President Richard Nixon seated on a toilet, smoking. The backdrop features a modified ”SEAL OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ” which includes the Latin motto ”E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Visible text includes ”SMILE” at the top, ”JEANS WEST” on the figure's pants, and ”THINGS COULD BE WORSE” at the bottom center. The poster is signed ”PETAGNO III” and bears the copyright ”©1971 SALADIN.” Height: 35.5 inches Width: 23.5 inches The poster exhibits signs of age and prior handling, including creasing throughout, edge wear, minor tears and chipping in the corners, and pinholes or remnants of adhesive from previous display. There is overall toning to the paper, especially visible on the reverse.