About the Artist
Edward M. Eggleston was a prominent American illustrator whose work helped shape the visual identity of seaside resorts during the 1930s. Specializing in commercial art, Eggleston captured the spirit of leisure and optimism that defined the era, particularly through vibrant travel posters. His images were instrumental in promoting destinations to a broad public at a time when posters were a key tool for inspiring travel and escapism.
Eggleston’s approach emphasized creating an inviting sense of place, blending aspirational imagery with the clarity needed for effective advertising. His posters, including those for Atlantic City, reflect the interwar period’s fascination with modern recreation and the allure of the American coastline. For those interested in the history of graphic design, his work stands as a classic example of advertising posters from the golden age of travel promotion.
The Artwork
Created in 1935, this Atlantic City poster captures the city’s enduring appeal as a glamorous seaside destination during the Great Depression. Despite economic hardships, Atlantic City continued to offer an escape filled with sunshine, ocean breezes, and lively entertainment, drawing visitors seeking a refreshing break by the shore.
The artwork was designed to instantly attract attention: a bold destination name paired with an inviting scene that promises effortless enjoyment. As a vintage travel poster, it not only promoted Atlantic City but also preserved the era’s confident vision of American coastal tourism and the optimism of interwar leisure culture.
Style & Characteristics
The poster features striking Atlantic City lettering set against a streamlined beachscape. Expanses of blue depict the sea and sky, complemented by sandy yellows and highlighted with touches of orange, red, and white. Figures and beach umbrellas are rendered in simplified forms, providing life and scale without overwhelming the composition.
The design exemplifies the crisp, lithographic style of 1930s commercial art, with a breezy, uplifting mood. Its strong graphic clarity makes it appealing for collectors of sea and ocean wall art and those drawn to vintage beach scenes with a modernist touch.
In Interior Design
This vintage poster brings a sense of light and relaxation to living rooms, hallways, home offices, or guest bedrooms. It pairs beautifully with pale woods, rattan, linen, and chrome or lacquer accents for a coastal-modern effect that nods to its 1930s origins.
To echo the palette, combine it with crisp whites, sandy neutrals, and nautical blues in textiles or ceramics, or highlight the warm orange-red accents in small decor. It also integrates seamlessly into a horizontal posters gallery wall for a fresh, travel-inspired interior.
