No Smoking

T. F. Chen was commissioned in the early 90’s to create an artwork raising awareness of cancer prevention. One of the designs that Chen came up with is this “No Smoking” silkscreen in Vincent van Gogh’s trademark. Chen newly interpreted the image to fit the screenprinting process and made some modifications to communicate his message.

The originality and charm of this advertisement arises in the usage of a pictorial “icon” familiar to society. Van Gogh’s “Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear and Pipe” has been etched into the public consciousness. In combining the well-known image with the positive message of “No Smoking,” the painting wittily and effectively catches the spectator’s eye. It is always a delight to perceive a message conveyed through art.

The first number of this “No Smoking” serigraph edition was welcomed by the White House during President Ronald Reagan’s administration.

– T. F. and Julie Chen