This poster advertises The Boston Tea Party Birthday Party featuring The Velvet Underground, held on Wednesday, January 22, 1969. Designed by artist Bob Driscoll, the poster measures approximately 11 x 17 inches and prominently announces that the event offered free admission, underscoring the celebratory and inclusive nature of the occasion.
The design is bold and minimal, utilizing a vibrant yellow background with a large circular element in the center. Encased in an orange ring, the central white circle draws the eye directly to the text. The event details are presented in clean, classic typography, with “The Velvet Underground” prominently displayed beneath the headline, “The Boston Tea Party Birthday Party.” The date and free admission are equally emphasized, ensuring the essential information is clear and accessible.
The arrow motif surrounding the text lends the design a sense of movement and energy, symbolizing the ongoing legacy of The Boston Tea Party as a vital hub for music and counterculture. The use of bright, contrasting colors creates a striking visual impact, capturing the optimism and celebratory spirit of the event.
This poster reflects The Boston Tea Party’s role as a cornerstone of Boston’s music scene during the 1960s, and The Velvet Underground’s integral connection to the venue. As a piece of art and memorabilia, it represents both the avant-garde ethos of the band and the venue’s legacy as a vibrant cultural space.