Woe from Wit

Commissioned to design the visual communication of Alexander Griboedov’s play “Woe from Wit” directed by Stathis Livathinos, we drew inspiration from the play’s most enduring legacy—the treasure trove of catchphrases that are still being quoted today, a century after it was written. Set in Moscow high society after the Napoleonic wars, the verse comedy is famous for its biting and, as it turns out, ageless social criticisms. In order to highlight this remarkable aspect, we designed a series of posters where the play’s most quoted phrases take centre stage. Combined with bold colour selections, the posters pack quite a punch with their witty messaging.