Music poster exhibition hits Redcliffe

Paul Worstead, Jimmy Jones Souvenirs, Mental as anything - Creatures of leisure (Martin), 1982, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, gift of the artist 1994 © Paul Worstead

Music fans can take a trip back to the psychedelic 1960s, 70s and 80s with an exhibition of more than 70 classic music posters now open at Redcliffe Museum.

Enjoy this Trip: The Art of Music Posters, drawn from the National Gallery of Australia's collection, features Australian and international acts including The Who, The Doors, Grateful Dead, Cream, Goanna and Mental As Anything.

Running until February 21, 2027, the exhibition explores three decades of music history through the colourful artwork used to promote bands, concerts and festivals, accompanied by a soundtrack from the era.

The collection includes landmark works from San Francisco's famous Summer of Love and counterculture movement, alongside Australian designs reflecting changing musical tastes and the experimental printing techniques of the pre-digital age.

From swirling lettering and kaleidoscopic colours to bold typography, the posters offer a glimpse into how music was promoted and how its visual identity evolved over three decades.

City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the exhibition would bring back memories for music lovers while highlighting the connection between music, art and popular culture.

“Music-lovers will be able to immerse themselves in the history and cultural impact of music and its associated art, thanks to more than 70 printed posters accompanied by a period-specific soundtrack,” he said.

The Mayor also pointed to the city's musical history, including internationally recognised acts the Bee Gees and Kingfisha.

The exhibition opened on November 7 with a free event featuring a presentation by National Gallery curator Leanne Santoro on the history and cultural significance of the posters and their distinctive designs, along with a live performance by singer and DJ Megan Barnes.

Other activities planned during the exhibition include music trivia and vinyl art creation.

Enjoy this Trip: The Art of Music Posters is a National Gallery Touring Exhibition supported by the Australian Government through the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program.