above image is from Psychedelic Bay by artist Brian Exton, thanks!

by Gregg Prescott, M.S.
www.in5d.com
www.maya12-21-2012.com

Psychedelic art is artwork that, in general, is inspired by a psychedelic experience of hallucinogens such as LSD, mushrooms and psilocybin.  These substances create an altered state of consciousness which manifests and expresses itself through this genre of art.

Psychologist Humphry Osmond coined the word psychedelic, which means “mind manifesting.”  Artwork associated with psychedelics began appearing during the 1960’s hippy counterculture movement and remains in vogue today.

Creative avenues expanded this style of art through the use of black lights and in turn, enhanced the psychedelic experience.  The use of light shows at rock concerts also became part of the psychedelic experience.

Psychedelic artwork eventually became engrained in corporate advertising.  Below is an animated commercial by artist Peter Max.

 

Psychedelic art, in general,  reflected the peace and love movement of the 1960’s.  Let’s take a “trip” through time and relive that energy.

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