Group of Psychedelic Handbills

Group of 20 handbills, ca. 1967–1970, for rock performances in San Francisco, including shows by the Grateful Dead, the Mothers of Invention, Led Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane and other bands. The highly striking and colorful graphic designs in psychedelic style, many designed by Wes Wilson, advertise shows presented by rock impresario Bill Graham. Some addressed and postmarked on the verso. In very fine condition overall, sizes ranging from 4 x 6 inches to 6 x 9 inches.

The elements of psychedelic style—bright colors, bold typography, kaleidoscopic patterns—can be traced back to the movements of Art Nouveau, the Vienna Secession, and Surrealism. Wes Wilson, one of the leading designers of psychedelic posters, is particularly known for inventing a font which creates the illusion that letters are moving or melting—an effect which can be seen in the present handbills. Best known for designing posters for Bill Graham of The Fillmore in San Francisco, he invented a style that is now synonymous with the peace movement, psychedelic era and the 1960s. Wilson's style was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. Wilson is considered to be one of "The Big Five" San Francisco poster artists, along with Alton Kelley, Victor Moscoso, Rick Griffin, and Stanley Mouse. (17261)

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Song

Program, unsigned

Art

Broadside

$750.00

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