In the late 1940s and 50s, mainstream illustration was dominated by the simulated small-town charm of Norman Rockwell and the slick but false assurances of the Westport School. But designer-illustrator Seymour Chwast was not content to occupy these neutral cultural and creative grooves.

From his politically charged anti-war posters to his unconventional picture books, Chwast rewrote visual culture through acts of protest. Flat Out Rebellion features several examples of Chwast’s outspoken posters, unconventional children’s books, and unique original drawings from the D.B. Dowd Modern Graphic History Library that showcase Chwast’s graphic, friendly, and unforgettable acts of creative rebellion.

Master of Fine Arts in Illustration and Visual Culture candidate Danielle Ridolfi organized this exhibition for the Washington University Libraries.