This flyer advertises The Velvet Underground’s performances at The Vulcan Gas Company in Austin, Texas, from October 23 to October 25, 1969. Designed by Jim Franklin, the flyer measures approximately 8.5 x 11 inches and is a visually compelling piece that combines artistic creativity with subtle humor. It originates from the collection of Sterling Morrison, the band’s guitarist, further enhancing its historical significance.
The design features an imaginative illustration of a cross-section of the earth, where a coffin labeled “VELVET” is humorously buried underground, directly referencing the band’s name. Above the coffin, a cemetery scene with cartoonish gravestones and mourners adds an element of dark, whimsical satire. The purple and orange color scheme creates a bold contrast, making the artwork visually striking and evocative of late 1960s countercultural aesthetics.
The flyer lists the event details in a clean and straightforward format at the top, stating the concert dates and highlighting the venue, The Vulcan Gas Company, located on Congress Avenue in Austin. Supporting acts included Ramon, Ramon and the Four Daddyos (performing Thursday and Saturday) and Water Brothers (performing Friday), emphasizing the multi-night nature of the event.
Advance tickets were priced at $2.00, available at various local outlets such as Willie’s and Phil’s Records. This flyer not only served as a promotional tool but also reflected the underground, avant-garde ethos of both the venue and the band.
Jim Franklin’s artwork encapsulates the fusion of humor, artistry, and music that characterized the era. As a piece from Sterling Morrison’s collection, it stands as a remarkable artifact of The Velvet Underground’s enduring legacy in American music and culture.