The 2025 Free State Festival poster features original artwork by artist Charley Forsyth and graphic design by Amy Albright of StonyPoint Graphics. Charley is a Lawrence print artist and this piece celebrates the history of film through its depiction of the thaumotrope, an optical trope that demonstrates ‘persistence of vision.’ This optical illusion toy is a two sided disk with strings attached on each side. When the strings are twirled, the two images appear as one – serving as an early form of animation.
Look for these beautiful posters in downtown storefronts soon!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Charley Forsyth is an artist living in Lawrence, KS. He primarily works as a printmaker, creating original handmade prints from linoleum and wood. He has created a variety of work, drawing from Midwestern and pop culture themes. His work can be found at Wonder Fair in Lawrence, Tyler Kingston in Kansas City and City Arts in Wichita. It can also be found at the Kansas State History Museum, the Capitol Store, and Leaping Llamas in Topeka. He has created commission work for a number of private clients and has done image work for the Kansas State Historical Society and Messner Bee Farm.