Lights, Color, Fashion: Psychedelic Posters and Patterns of 1960s San Francisco, 2020-2021

The exhibit showcases a phenomenal ensemble of San Francisco rock posters and fashion gathered by collector Gary Westford. Originally slated to open in spring of 2020, the exhibit truly signifies a light at the end of a tunnel for our programming. The collection highlights the kaleidoscopic years of 1964 to 1972, and features rock posters by all of the “Big Five” poster artists: Victor Moscoso, Rick Griffin, Wes Wilson, Stanley Mouse, and Alton Kelley. Clothing ranging from designer to street fashion will illustrate the style and sense of self-expression from West Coast scene during the time.

Lights, Color, Fashion also features a ‘60s-style black light room for visitors to experience a dozen posters plus an Op art dress that has been printed using high-intensity color and fluorescing inks that appear to glow under black light. The designs of these posters cover all genres, from a Jimi Hendrix concert to Native American, African American, and Mexican American heroes to creative, complex geometric prints.

Complementing the exhibit, experience a light show by renowned San Francisco light artist Bill Ham. The fantastic backdrops created by Ham were frequently found at rock concerts during the era. The light show, set amid the exhibition and projecting on the wall, is sure to immerse the senses.

Additional works by a variety of other artists round out the collection and add unique styles and perspectives not often seen.