Posters provide information not only about the dominant visual styles of an era but also about the activities many people enjoy during their leisure. Typically posters include both textual and graphic elements, although a poster may be either wholly graphical or wholly textual.

Posters are designed to be both eye-catching and convey information. Posters may be used for many purposes, and they are a frequent tool of advertisers (particularly of events, musicians and films), propagandists, protestors and other groups trying to communicate a message. Posters are also used for reproductions of artwork, particularly famous works, and are generally low-cost compared to original artwork.