Just Like Being There

Just Like Being There is an insightful 2012 documentary directed by Scout Shannon that takes the viewers on a journey through the dynamic world of modern gig posters - the concert posters that fans might buy at a show to remember the experience by. The film shines a light on the thriving subculture of artists who create limited-edition posters for alternative music shows, and it features many key figures in the vibrant gig poster community, including the internationally acclaimed graphic artists Daniel Danger, Germain Lussier, and Jay Ryan.

The film opens with animated sequences unveiling an underground art movement that has swiftly gained momentum in recent years, evolving into a significant market. Gig posters initially served to advertise rock concerts, but over time, they've transformed into coveted items collected by ardent music lovers as emblematic tokens of their favorite shows. By focusing on the poster artists, the film shows us not just the artistic expertise that goes into the creation of these posters, but also the love for music that drives these artists.

Daniel Danger, a Massachusetts artist known for his distinctly detailed images providing a unique perspective of the ordinary, takes center stage in the film. As Danger guides the viewers through his fascinating creative process, his painstaking attention to detail becomes apparent. Being an artist who specializes in printmaking, every print he creates is meticulously crafted, showing his deep-rooted passion for the craft.

The film also features Germain Lussier, a Los Angeles based art critic, collector, and unabashed fan of gig posters. Lussier offers the perspective of one who immerses himself in the exhilarating process of collecting these pieces of art which are reminiscent of unforgettable musical journeys. His passionate insights and commentaries provide viewers with a better understanding of the importance of gig posters in the music industry and contemporary popular culture.

Jay Ryan, a remarkable and beloved figure in the gig poster scene, known for his whimsically charming, playful, and often anthropomorphized animal drawings, is also showcased. The Illinois-based artist and printmaker's unique style resonates with both music enthusiasts and admirers of independent art culture, providing an important perspective on the interaction between graphic arts and music.

Central to the narrative is the film's exploration of the symbiotic relationship between graphic designers, bands, and their fans. Just Like Being There reveals how the artists collaborate closely with the bands to capture their spirit in these posters, resulting in pieces that not only serve as a marketing tool for the concerts but also as identity markers for the bands. The bands get custom artwork that reflects their music, and the artists get a platform for their work and a connection to the music they love. This relationship is vital in creating posters that resonate with fans who often see the posters as more than just concert memorabilia but as personal mementos that embody their connection to the music and the shared experience of the gig.

The feature also takes viewers behind the scenes at two different versions of the Flatstock poster show — a haven for gig poster enthusiasts. Here, the artists show and sell their work, converse with fans and other artists, and provide a glimpse into the camaraderie that exists within this artistic community.

More than just showing the physical process of designing and printing, Just Like Being There explores the emotional and intellectual efforts involved in creating these unique pieces of artwork. It delves into the lives and backgrounds of the poster makers, their inspirations, their struggles, their accomplishments, and their aspirations for the future.

With its intriguing subject matter, intimate interviews, and exposure to a myriad of artistic styles, Just Like Being There engages viewers with the unlikely artistry that surrounds the music industry. This documentary is a must-watch not only for music lovers and art enthusiasts but for anyone drawn to creative expressions and subcultures. The film is a testament to the fact that the power of music transcends sound, influencing a visual art form that is cherished by the music community. By the end, Just Like Being There manages to immerse the audience in the aura of excitement and enthusiasm that surrounds the creation of these gig posters, making it feel like you are indeed, 'just like being there'.