About the Artist
Joby Harris is a contemporary illustrator and designer known for transforming complex space science into visually engaging graphic narratives. His work often channels the spirit of midcentury travel posters, blending vintage inspiration with a distinctly modern sensibility. Harris’s collaborations with NASA have helped make astronomical discoveries accessible and inspiring for a broad audience.
His Exoplanet poster is a standout within the space and science collections, appealing to those who appreciate the intersection of imagination and real scientific achievement.
The Artwork
Created in 2019, this poster celebrates the discovery of 51 Pegasi b, the first exoplanet found orbiting a Sun-like star. This milestone marked a turning point in astronomy, opening the door to the study of countless worlds beyond our solar system. The artwork is conceived as a visionary travel advertisement, inviting viewers to dream about interstellar journeys and the possibilities of life on distant planets.
Rather than focusing solely on scientific data, the poster evokes the excitement and optimism of a new era in space exploration. It serves as a tribute to human curiosity and the enduring quest to chart the unknown, echoing the golden age of travel posters while looking toward the future.
Style & Characteristics
This piece exemplifies retro-futurist design, with bold, simplified planetary forms and striking typography reminiscent of vintage postcards. The composition features a prominent exoplanet set against a deep blue-black space, accented by warm oranges, yellows, and crisp white highlights. The greeting-style layout and layered graphic elements create a sense of movement and invitation.
The overall mood is adventurous and uplifting, with a palette that balances cosmic depth and vibrant energy. The clean lines and high-contrast colors make it visually impactful, especially in modern or minimalist interiors. For more works in this aesthetic, explore our minimalist collection.
In Interior Design
This poster is especially suited for home offices, creative studios, hallway gallery walls, or kids’ rooms centered on discovery and learning. Its graphic clarity and optimistic tone make it a strong focal point in contemporary, midcentury, or eclectic spaces.
Pair with black or white frames and accent pieces in cobalt blue, ochre, or orange to echo the poster’s palette. For a cohesive display, consider combining it with selections from the frames collection.
