About

Founded in 1979 by Colorado State University’s Department of Art graphic design program, the Colorado International Invitational Poster Exhibition (CIIPE) brings world-class poster design to U.S. audiences by inviting submissions from acclaimed poster artists across the globe.

Every two years, CIIPE showcases work from nearly 100 artists representing roughly 30 countries—often totaling close to 200 posters. Artists submit two copies of up to two posters: one is exhibited (and available for purchase), and the second is archived in the CSU Libraries as part of the International Poster Collection. Together, the exhibition and collection capture a wide range of subjects, perspectives, and techniques—making them a rich resource for learning, inspiration, and discovery.

CIIPE remains the only international poster exhibition of its kind in the United States and is part of a growing global network of exhibitions celebrating the power of posters. Its long-term focus is simple: keep the poster medium moving forward—tracking how it responds to contemporary culture, exploring the influence of new technologies and the information age, and spotlighting emerging designers shaping what’s next.

CIIPE has been held biennially since 1979. The 2021 exhibition was postponed by one year due to the global pandemic, and the exhibition now takes place in even-numbered years.