Pyshedelic Art

The discovery of LSD and its subsequent popularity as an agent that produces altered states of consciousness was at the core of the Psychedelic Art movement; however, other drugs were also used as a means of inducing certain types of artistic expressions.

Various poster artists of San Francisco were responsible for launching the Psychedelic Art movement during the 1960s such as:

The psychedelic style peaked between 1966 and 1972. Many works, especially evident in concert and event posters, depicted a strong color palette—usually of contrasting colors—along with ornate lettering, and kaleidoscopic swirls.


The art of this period also reflected Art Nouveau and Victorian influences.