I began collecting seatback safety cards at age eight - I might have been drawn by their graphic qualities or the drama of the scenarios they depict. But, if I’m honest, I probably started bringing them home because of the bold instruction, “DO NOT REMOVE FROM AIRPLANE” — which I interpreted as a challenge.

As a designer, my appreciation for seatback cards deepened; they reflect brand identity and offer a window into consumer culture. I've now aquired over 300 cards from dozens of airlines spanning over 100 years.

Together, the collection tells a historical narrative. Early cards were text-heavy, guiding first-time flyers, while those from the age of transcontinental travel favor pictograms. The design styles and printing techniques convey an international story of innovation, changing tastes, and evolving perceptions of travel.

New cards come from friends who acquire them (strictly through legal means), while historical cards are sourced from eBay or trades with other collectors. I scan each card at 4000 dpi, preserving them in archival conditions to ensure their longevity.