Product Description

Early in the 20th century, as Americans climbed into their Model-Ts and took to the open road, American manufacturers and retailers discovered miles and miles of new advertising space, and the audaciously oversized billboard was born. For a century, billboards have recruited, congratulated, teased, sold, and seduced us, promoting everything under the sun, from hosiery to war bonds, presidential candidates to rock shows. GREAT AMERICAN BILLBOARDS not only offers a lively look back at changing styles, products, and tastes, but is also an important visual record of this largely unheralded yet ubiquitous American art form.Reviews"This slice-of-life compendium entertains and educates."-US Airways Magazine"Although the pictures are fascinating, Basten'¬?s text is quite a bonus."-Oklahoman"An illuminating guide to a country, its culture, and its people."-American Way"Beyond the irresistible nostalgia is a fascinating glimpse of the evolution of our consumer nation."-Dallas Morning NewsFeatured on Entertainment Weekly'¬?s "Must List"

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1455352 in Books
• Published on: 2007-01-01
• Released on: 2007-01-01
• Original language: English
• Dimensions: 6.50" h x .55" w x 11.05" l, 1.45 pounds
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

About the Author
FRED E. BASTEN has written, collaborated on, or contributed to nearly 40 books over the last 30 years, in addition to having a successful career in advertising. He lives in Santa Monica, California.