Wiesław Wałkuski (b. 1956) studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw. He is an illustrator,painter and designer. At the end of his studies he was employed by Film Polski to produce art work and cover designs.
During this period he worked with visual studio publishers and numerous theater groups, producing artwork and set design for production.
1. Wałkuski’s posters often feel like dreams or nightmares, infused with tension, mystery, and symbolism.
2. Faces are distorted, masked, or merged with other elements — hinting at inner conflict, identity, or repression.
3. His posters are not just visual communication — they’re psychological portraits.
What is Wałkuski’s secret?
1. Wałkuski’s technique is rooted in fine art painting — using meticulous shading, realism, and texture to create haunting and atmospheric images.
2. Even though they’re posters, they often look like gallery-quality oil paintings. frequently uses muted tones, shadows, and desaturated colors — often contrasted with a single striking element (like red lips, a pale mask, or a symbolic object).
4. Typography is subtle and unobtrusive — he lets the image do most of the talking. When used, the type is usually small, elegant, and integrated into the composition without stealing attention.
