2024 Poster Art
About the artist
Aaron Whisner, is a multidisciplinary artist best known for his large-scale murals and installations. A native of Oklahoma, Aaron is co-founder of Clean Hands Inc., a Tulsa based design crew and streetwear supplier. Aaron has been actively painting since the mid 90’s. With roots in graffiti and street art scenes, inspiration is drawn from hand painted signage, street textures and type. Bold use of imagery and technique is used to capture public attention while maintaining balance with surrounding environments. With each installation progression is the goal.
Based in Tulsa and founded in 2012, Clean Hands operates at the intersection of creativity and craftsmanship. With a dual focus on design and large scale installs, their commitment is to offer top-tier art direction and curation, creating transformative experiences through visual storytelling.
About the art
“I remember as a kid seeing the posters for Mayfest and being drawn to many of the artists’ work. With this piece I wanted to pay homage to some classic posters over the years. The foundation for a lot of what I create is found in the art of remixing imagery. In designing this piece I wanted to repurpose sections of some of my favorite posters to make something new in tribute to past Mayfest artists.”
The Artful Journey: 51 Years of Mayfest Poster Art
Since its inception in 1973, Tulsa’s Mayfest has been a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community. Each year, a talented artist crafts a poster that encapsulates the spirit of the festival. Take a brief look at five decades of Mayfest poster art:
1. The Genesis (1973-2000)
Jubilee '73: The inaugural Mayfest, then known as Jubilee '73, marked the festival’s birth. The first poster featured a jubilant crowd dancing under a star-studded sky, symbolizing unity, and joy.
Floral Flourish (1981-1990): As Mayfest gained momentum, floral motifs took center stage. Artists painted tulips, daffodils, and irises—nature’s ode to spring. These posters radiated optimism and growth.
Abstract Expressions (1991-2000): The '90s brought abstract art to the forefront. Bold strokes, geometric shapes, and vibrant colors adorned the posters. Each year, attendees deciphered hidden meanings within the abstract forms.
2. The Millennium Shift (2001-2010)
Digital Renaissance (2001-2005): The dawn of the digital age influenced Mayfest posters. Artists blended traditional techniques with digital wizardry. These posters reflected a fusion of old and new.
Cultural Collage (2006-2010): Tulsa’s diversity shone through collage-style posters. Layers of imagery—musicians, dancers, and iconic landmarks—celebrated the city’s rich tapestry.
3. The Modern Era (2011-2022)
Urban Vistas (2011-2015): Artists captured Tulsa’s evolving skyline—the BOK Center, the Gathering Place, and the Art Deco District. These posters whispered, “Look how far we’ve come.”
Whimsical Realism (2016-2022): Surreal scenes emerged—hot air balloons floating over Guthrie Green, mythical creatures dancing by the Arkansas River. These posters invited viewers to dream.
4. The Golden Jubilee (2023)
50th Anniversary (2023): Shortly after purchasing Mayfest ensuring its 50th annual event, The University of Tulsa President Brad R. Carson invited acclaimed international artist, Patrick S. Gordon to create the golden jubilee poster. “M is for Mayfest (Oni’s Flowers),” depicted sunflowers, tulips, and violets on a 19th-century table. A snow globe added whimsy. The ribbon tied around the flowers came from Toni’s Flowers & Gifts, a local florist. A tribute to community and continuity.
5. Mayfest 2024
Mayfest poster art isn’t just ink on paper; it’s a visual diary of Tulsa’s soul. So, next time you stroll through the festival, pause at the poster gallery. Let the colors speak—the laughter, the music, the shared moments. Mayfest lives on, brushstroke by brushstroke.