Fred G. Johnson's Circus Banners

Origin
Fred G. Johnson was a circus banner artist whose work spanned 65 years, depicting everything from clowns and animals to freaks and misfits. Used by Ringling Bros, Barnum & Bailey and many smaller troupes, his banners were originally hung around carnivals and sideshows to attract crowds with their outrageous and spectacular performances. Although not formally trained in art, Johnson’s banners have now become collectible for their artwork.

Effects
When neared, they will activate and the subjects shown will animate. They can move around the fabric, display their act and even hold conversations with a passerby. Touching the cloth has been known to allow entrance into the banner’s wondrous world, but also lets the painted performers and acts escape the same way.