Few artists shaped a brand’s visual identity as memorably as John Gilroy. Active from the 1930s through the 1960s, Gilroy brought the world of Guinness to life with fearless color, bold graphics, mischievous humor, and unforgettable characters. His posters didn’t just advertise a beer, they built a playful, enduring visual universe that remains instantly recognizable today.

Eibhlin Colgan, Archive & Heritage Manager at Guinness St. James’s Gate, joins us live from Dublin for a deep dive into Gilroy’s creative legacy. You’ll explore the evolution of the famous Guinness animals (including the iconic toucan), discover how these designs came to define the brand, and see why Gilroy’s work still influences design and advertising nearly a century later.

Eibhlin Colgan has been at the helm of the Guinness Archive since 2001. She has overseen the development of a living archive and has a passion for bringing the heritage of the brand to life and using that legacy to inform future innovations and developments. Eibhlin’s love of Guinness extends not just to the beer but the brand as part of the fabric of Irish culture. Eibhlin has the unique distinction of being both an archivist and a qualified brewer, completing a General Certificate in Brewing with the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

THIS SESSION IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY:

CHRISTOPHER R. TAYLOR