This oversized postcard advertises The Velvet Underground’s performances from June 27 to June 30, 1968, at the Retinal Circus, a legendary venue located in Vancouver, Canada. Measuring approximately 5 x 14 inches, this striking piece of promotional material was designed by artist S. Seymour, whose bold and vibrant style captures the psychedelic aesthetic of the time.
The design features a vivid color palette dominated by red, orange, and purple, creating an eye-catching and dynamic composition. At the center is a stylized motif resembling a symmetrical mask or face, lending the design an air of mystery and intrigue. Flowing ribbons of text weave through the imagery, listing the event details and performers, while curvaceous, ethereal figures flank the composition, adding a whimsical, surreal quality.
In addition to The Velvet Underground, the postcard mentions other performers and acts featured during the event, including Papa Bear’s Medicine Show and Don Thom’s Sound Studio. These elements highlight the eclectic and experimental nature of the Retinal Circus, a venue known for hosting avant-garde performances and countercultural events during the late 1960s.
The use of ornate borders and swirling typography further enhances the postcard’s aesthetic appeal, making it not just a piece of advertising but also a work of art. This oversized postcard captures a unique moment in The Velvet Underground’s touring history, blending their avant-garde New York ethos with the free-spirited creativity of Vancouver’s psychedelic scene.
This piece is a vivid representation of 1960s concert art, embodying the cultural innovation and artistic experimentation of the era while providing a tangible link to one of rock history’s most influential bands.