One of rock-n’-roll’s most infamous graphic artists (and late Detroit-native) Gary Grimshaw will be honored starting Saturday, with an exhibit dedicated to his work at the Detroit Historical Museum.
Grimshaw, who died in January of 2014 after battling a series of strokes, is responsible for poster art promoting legendary performances, featuring artists such as: MC5, Jimi Hendrix Experience, Canned Heat, Cream, The Who, John Lennon, Stevie Wonder, Bob Seger, Beck, The White Stripes, The Dirtbombs and countless others.
In addition to his graphic design work for musical acts, Grimshaw was the art director for the Ann Arbor Blues and Jazz Festival in 1972 and 1973, as well as the artist behind multiple Dally in the Alley pieces, and – of course – the iconic posters for Ann Arbor’s infamous John Sinclair Freedom Rally in 1971.
Beginning October 25, his legacy will be celebrated with a special exhibit dedicated to his art and impact on music culture at the Detroit Historic Museum, located at the corner of E Kirby St. and Woodward Ave. The exhibition opening celebration will feature a one-time screening of the documentary “Louder Than Love: The Grande Ballroom Story” on October 30 (6 – 9 pm), which features Alice Cooper, Wayne Kramer and Dennis Thompson of the MC5, Ted Nugent, Iggy Pop, and the history of one of Detroit’s most legendary theaters. (Beer will be provided by Atwater Brewery.)
Admission to the Detroit Historical Museum is free (with donations encouraged), and is open Tuesday through Friday (9:30 am – 4 pm) and Saturday through Sunday (10 am – 5 pm).