99% Invisible The Art of the Olympics
6 snips
Jul 30, 2024 
Claire Mullen, a producer known for her work on the design of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, and Kurt Kohlstedt, who has explored Olympic poetry, dive into the artistic dimensions of the Games. They uncover the politically charged backdrop of the 1968 Olympics, showcasing the striking iconography and the importance of design amidst social unrest. Kurt highlights the unique artistic competitions once included in the Olympics and imagines a world where athletes display their creativity through various art forms, blending sport and culture in fascinating ways.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Black Power Salute
- In 1968, Tommy Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony.
- This act, during the Mexico City Olympics, is a powerful symbol of political defiance in sports history.
Revolutionary Olympics
- The 1968 Olympics were a pivotal moment, marked by several significant political events.
- These included the first woman lighting the cauldron and a Czech gymnast's victory over Soviet athletes.
Wyman's Design
- Lance Wyman, a young graphic designer, won the design competition for the 1968 Olympics.
- He used pre-Columbian art and Op Art to create the iconic logo and typography.
