For almost 90 years, the non-profit, all-volunteer Durham Fair Association has produced the largest agricultural expo in North America. And for nearly a quarter century, the Durham Fair’s Limited Edition Commemorative posters were produced by the Bertz Design Group, invariably becoming sought-after collectors’ items.

The posters not only celebrate the virtues of the community’s heritage, but also capture the pride and fun of one of Connecticut’s favorite events.

The book Fair Play by Bertz Design Group’s founder, features beautiful reproductions of every Durham Fair Poster from 1987 through 2008 accompanied by a brief narrative from Ted Bertz that explains the thought process behind each gem.

The author and designer, who grew up on a farm in Ohio and lived for many years in Durham, produced the fair poster editions in six different series. Each edition focused on a unique aspect of the fair and farm life in small New England towns ranging from the ornate beauty of a hand-carved carousel horse to a woodcut of the newest breed of chicken and a colorful grid of utilitarian farm equipment wheels.

“The Durham Fair Posters were a way for me to pay homage to my love of a great fair and a proud Durham institution,” noted Mr. Bertz.  “And, while I’d like to think my efforts helped drive a few extra ticket sales, it’s very gratifying to have played a lasting role in the history of this revered agricultural celebration.”

Mr. Bertz signed copies of Fair Play at the fair this summer and has since made it available for purchase online at blurb.com where the book is beautifully printed on legendary Mohawk Superfine. A portion of the proceeds benefits Farm Aid.

Client: Durham Fair Association, Durham, CT
Designer: Bertz Design Group, CT
Paper: Mohawk Superfine