Introduction
Justin Helton, known for his work under the name Status Serigraph, designed a memorable concert poster for the Grateful Dead's 2015 Santa Clara shows, which were part of the "Fare Thee Well" concerts. These concerts were significant as they marked the 50th anniversary of the Grateful Dead and were among the last performances featuring the core surviving members of the band. Helton's poster for this event encapsulates the essence of the Grateful Dead's legacy, intertwining elements of their iconic psychedelic imagery with his own distinct style.
The poster typically features vibrant colors and intricate designs, hallmarks of Helton's work. His ability to blend the traditional Grateful Dead motifs, such as skeletons, roses, and dancing bears, with contemporary design elements, resulted in a visually striking piece. The poster not only served as a commemorative item for the concerts but also as a tribute to the band's half-century journey in music.
Key Features
- Artist: Justin Helton
- Year: 2015
- Edition: NA
- Numbering: 412/2015
- Signature: Signed by the Artist
- Dimensions: Approximately 18" x 24"
- Material: Color Silk Screen with gold Metallic Ink
- Venue: Levis Stadium
The Artist: Justin Helton for Status Serigraph
Justin Helton, a distinguished artist in the field of concert poster design, has carved a niche for himself with his unique and compelling visual style. Specializing in the music industry, particularly within the jam band and rock genres, Helton is known for his ability to encapsulate the spirit of a musical performance within his art. His work is characterized by a fusion of retro and contemporary elements, creating a visual language that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Helton's designs often feature bold colors, intricate patterns, and a playful yet sophisticated use of typography. His posters are not merely advertisements for events; they are standalone pieces of art, capturing the essence of the bands and the experiences they offer. His contribution to the music and art world is significant, with his designs being sought after by both music fans and collectors of fine art, reflecting a deep understanding and appreciation of the music he represents.
The Concert: Fare thee Well
There were actually two Grateful Dead concerts in Santa Clara in 2015, both part of the band's epic "Fare Thee Well" farewell tour. They were held on June 27 and 28 at Levi's Stadium, marking the band's first-ever performances at the venue.
These weren't just any ordinary concerts; they were a celebration of the Grateful Dead's 50th anniversary and a chance for fans to say goodbye to the band after the death of their longtime frontman, Jerry Garcia. The lineups were incredible, featuring surviving members Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, Phil Lesh, and Bob Weir joined by a rotating cast of guest vocalists and musicians, including Trey Anastasio, John Mayer, Bruce Hornsby, and Jeff Chimenti.
The Santa Clara shows were special for a few reasons:
- First-ever Dead shows at Levi's: This added to the excitement and novelty of the event.
- Emotional significance: These were some of the last Dead shows ever, and fans knew it.The atmosphere was electric and charged with emotion.
- Stellar guest spots: The likes of Mayer and Anastasio brought fresh energy and interpretations to classic Dead tunes.
The setlists were wide-ranging, spanning the Dead's entire career and featuring fan favorites like "Truckin'", "Sugar Magnolia", and "Casey Jones." There were also some surprises, like a cover of Dylan's "Desolation Row" and a guest appearance by former Dead lyricist Robert Hunter.
The Venue: Levi's Stadium
- Capacity: 68,500
- Opened: 2014
- Home to: San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
- First Grateful Dead concert: June 27, 2015
Levi's Stadium is a state-of-the-art, open-air stadium that features a number of unique amenities, including:
- A retractable roof that allows for year-round use
- A field that can be converted from grass to artificial turf
- 165 luxury suites
- 8,500 club seats
- A 360-degree concourse with views of the field
- A variety of concession stands and restaurants
- A museum dedicated to the history of the San Francisco 49ers