This stunning poster advertises performances from June 7th to June 9th, 1968, at the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco, California. Part of the iconic Family Dog concert series, this is Family Dog #122, featuring Iron Butterfly, The Velvet Underground, and Chrome Cyrcus. Designed by the celebrated artist Bob Schnepf, the artwork is a masterful representation of late-1960s psychedelic art.
The centerpiece of the poster is a surreal, vividly colored butterfly with intricate wings. The butterfly’s body forms the silhouette of a human figure, adding an ethereal, almost otherworldly quality to the design. The wings feature vibrant pink and black patterns that contrast with the soft green background, giving the composition a dynamic yet harmonious appearance. At the bottom of the poster, lush green drapery adds texture and depth, further enhancing the visual appeal.
The text is seamlessly integrated into the design, with the band names and event details elegantly placed within the butterfly’s wings and surrounding space. The fluid typography, characteristic of the psychedelic era, enhances the sense of movement and creativity.
This poster, which also exists as a postcard, is a quintessential piece of San Francisco’s music history, capturing the spirit of the counterculture movement. It represents not only a memorable weekend of music at the Avalon Ballroom but also the vibrant, boundary-pushing visual art that defined the era. Schnepf’s design continues to be celebrated as one of the most iconic pieces in the Family Dog series.