Introduction
This exceptionally rare transfer screen showcases the iconic art of Alton Kelley, featuring a design originally sold at the legendary 1983 Red Rocks concert in Colorado. Instantly recognized as a classic, this piece offers a unique glimpse into Kelley's artistic legacy and the vibrant spirit of the era.
More than just a print, this transfer screen pellon represents a historical artifact for any fan of Kelley's work or the Grateful Dead scene. Its scarcity adds an extra layer of intrigue and value, making it a coveted treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features
- Artist: Alton Kelley
- Year: 1983
- Edition Size: Pellon
- Numbering: NA
- Signature: NA
- Dimensions: 16" x 20"
- Material: Original Screen print
- Venue: NA
The Artist: Alton Kelley
Alton Kelley was a legendary American artist whose iconic psychedelic posters and album covers defined the visual aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s. His vibrant colors, intricate details, and captivating characters captured the spirit of the era, forever linking his work with the counterculture movement and the music scene that flourished alongside it.
Born in 1940, Kelley developed his artistic talent early on. He studied at the Art Students League in New York City but ultimately found his calling in the burgeoning San Francisco psychedelic art scene. Here, he collaborated with fellow artist Stanley Mouse to create some of the most recognizable poster designs of the era, including the Grateful Dead's "Skull and Roses" poster and Big Brother and the Holding Company's "Cheap Thrills" album cover.
The Band: The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead was an American rock band that formed in San Francisco, California, in 1965. The band was known for its long, improvisational live sets, its psychedelic rock sound, and its association with the hippie counterculture movement. The band was also known for its devoted fan base, known as "Deadheads."
The Grateful Dead's music was a blend of rock, blues, country, jazz, and psychedelic rock. The band was also known for its use of extended improvisation, which allowed the musicians to explore their musical ideas at length. The Grateful Dead's live shows were legendary, and the band was known for its ability to create a sense of community and shared experience among its fans.
The Grateful Dead released a number of influential studio albums, including "Anthem of the Sun" (1968), "Live/Dead" (1975), and "Terrapin Station" (1977). The band's music was also featured in a number of films, including "Easy Rider" (1969) and "The Concert in Central Park" (1979).
The Grateful Dead was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. The band's music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world, and its legacy is secure as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.
The Grateful Dead was more than just a band; it was a cultural phenomenon. The band's music and its message of peace and love resonated with a generation of young people who were looking for an alternative to the mainstream. The Grateful Dead's concerts were more than just performances; they were community gatherings where people could come together to celebrate music, art, and each other.
The Grateful Dead's legacy is one of peace, love, and music. The band's music continues to inspire and uplift people around the world, and its message of hope and unity is as relevant today as it was ever.
The Venue: Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheatre, nestled amidst the red sandstone cliffs of Morrison, Colorado, holds a unique and deeply significant place in the history of the Grateful Dead. The band performed at this iconic venue 20 times between 1978 and 1987, etching their legacy into the very fabric of the amphitheatre's soul.
The First Encounter: July 7th, 1978
The Grateful Dead's first foray into Red Rocks occurred on July 7th, 1978. This initial encounter ignited a love affair that would last for a decade. The band, immediately captivated by the amphitheatre's natural beauty and open-air acoustics, delivered a powerhouse performance that cemented Red Rocks as a regular stop on their tour schedules.
Unforgettable Moments and Musical Gems:
Over the next nine years, the Grateful Dead graced the Red Rocks stage with numerous unforgettable moments and musical gems. Highlights include:
- July 8th, 1978: The following night, the band delivered another legendary performance, captured in its entirety on the live album "Red Rocks: 7/8/78."
- August 30th & 31st, 1978: These back-to-back shows featured extended improvisational jams and a powerful rendition of "Dark Star."
- August 27th, 28th, & 29th, 1982: A three-night run dedicated to the memory of Dennis McNally, a dear friend and Deadhead, saw the band deliver some of their most emotional and heartfelt performances.
- September 5th, 6th, & 7th, 1985: These shows, known as the "Red Rocks Box Set," offer a comprehensive glimpse into the band's musical repertoire and stage presence at their peak.
Beyond the Music: A Spiritual Connection
The connection between the Grateful Dead and Red Rocks transcended mere musical performances. The band recognized the amphitheatre's unique energy and spiritual significance, often referring to it as a "sacred space." This reverence is evident in the band's passionate performances and the deep emotional connection they shared with their devoted fans at Red Rocks.
A Legacy that Lives On
The Grateful Dead's legacy at Red Rocks continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike. The amphitheatre regularly hosts tribute nights and Dead-inspired bands, ensuring that the spirit of the Grateful Dead lives on in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
For those seeking to explore the Grateful Dead's history at Red Rocks, here are some resources:
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre website: https://www.mountainproject.com/area/105746418/red-rocks-boulder
- Documentaries: "Red Rocks: 7/8/78" (2016), "The Grateful Dead Movie" (1977)
- Books: "The Grateful Dead and Red Rocks: A Retrospective" by Robert Greenfield, "The Grateful Dead:The Illustrated Trip" by Blair Jackson
Discover the magic of the Grateful Dead's connection with Red Rocks and experience the enduring legacy of this iconic band in a place that truly embodies their spirit.