Currently on display at the Brigham Young University Museum of Art, Wit and Vision: The Creative Collaboration of McRay Magleby and Norm Darais gives an engaging and entertaining overview of the work produced by a partnership of genius. Beginning in 1978 and lasting for nearly two decades, Magleby’s design and Darais’ clever writing resulted in iconic publicity images for the University’s registration department. These posters became so popular they quickly started disappearing from campus and making appearances on the bedroom walls of many students. 

Harkening back to well known themes, including Greek Mythology, American Folk Art traditions, nursery rhymes and more, these served as much more than information posters. Their engaging and unique quality speak to the talent of the partnership as well as their desire to increase communication among students of their shared alma mater. Through the witty language and puns of Darais, Magleby’s images were given an incredible purpose. Their work resulted in transforming previously mundane information into an interactive visual experience. Disseminating details about deadlines and other various campus announcements was elevated to the status of high art. This imaginative approach continues to captivate audiences all these years later. 

The show includes a large array of work spanning the breadth of their entire partnership, as well as the inclusion of some of Magleby’s most recognizable designs from his personal career. Regardless of life status, visitors will be captivated by the wonder, intelligence and captivating nature of these works in addition to a desire to register for fall semester on time. Make sure to pay a visit to the BYU MOA before mid-August to revel in the inspiring and delightful work which makes up this exhibition. — Caroline Johnson (Wit and Vision: The Creative Collaboration of McRay Magleby and Norm Darais continues at the Brigham Young University Museum of Art through August 26, 2023.)