Introduction
The AJ Masthay Grateful Dead "Bertha" Poster is a unique and highly collectible piece of artwork, reflecting a long-standing relationship between the artist and the iconic band. Created by AJ Masthay, who is renowned for his work with the Grateful Dead, this limited-edition poster features Bertha and Uncle Sam enjoying their favorite Dead album on a McIntosh audio system, alongside a sketch of the Dead's iconic McIntosh-powered Wall of Sound. This collaboration was part of a series of officially licensed Grateful Dead posters by various artists, initiated by Bottleneck Gallery with AJ Masthay's piece leading the way.
The poster measures 18 x 24 inches and was hand-printed by Masthay using his reduction block printing process, a technique that adds a unique depth and quality to each print, making them more akin to fine art pieces than mere posters. Printed on high-quality, 100% cotton printmaking paper, each print stands as a collectible work of art. The attention to detail and the quality of materials used in the creation of these posters is evident. They are individually signed and numbered by the artist, adding to their exclusivity and collectible value.
Limited to only 250 pieces, the AJ Masthay Grateful Dead "Bertha" Poster is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead and the artistic talents of AJ Masthay. It's not just a poster, but a piece of music history, appealing to fans of the band and collectors of music memorabilia alike. This limited availability and the exclusivity of the artwork make it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts of the Grateful Dead.
Key Features
- Artist: AJ Masthay
- Year: 2021
- Numbering: AP
- Signature: Signed by the Artist
- Dimensions: Approximately 13.5" x 21"
- Material: Block Printed on 100% cotton printmakers paper
- Venue: NA
The Artist: AJ Masthay
In the realm of rock and roll posters, Status Serigraph stands as a legendary name, having created iconic visuals for some of music's most revered acts. Their work is characterized by its bold, psychedelic style, which perfectly captures the spirit of the bands they represent.
The Band: The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead, formed in 1965 in San Francisco, stands as one of the most influential bands in rock history, known for their unique blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, blues, reggae, country, improvisational jazz, psychedelia, and space rock. They were renowned for their live performances, characterized by lengthy instrumental jams and a dedicated fan base known as "Deadheads."
Their legacy extends beyond music to the cultural and social landscapes. They pioneered the modern concert sound system and were one of the first bands to allow fans to record their shows, fostering a massive tape-trading community that predated online file sharing. Their approach to music and the industry, including forming their own ticketing agency and emphasizing touring over album sales, was innovative for its time.
The Grateful Dead also symbolized the counterculture of the 1960s, embracing themes of freedom, anti-commercialism, and experimentation. The band's imagery, particularly the iconic "Skull and Roses" and "Dancing Bears," became symbols of this era and remain widely recognizable.
The influence of the Grateful Dead continues in the music world through numerous tribute bands, the ongoing projects of its members, and their impact on the jam band scene. Their approach to music, community-building, and fan engagement set a precedent that many artists still follow today.