Kaleidoscopic images and wildly colorful geometric designs, taking cues from Op Art (or optical art), frequently appear in blacklight posters. Many of the more vibrant and bizarre designs mimic the hallucinations of psychedelic drugs, which led to their popularity in "head shops" trading in drug-related merchandise. The abstract images of blacklight posters characterize the spaced-out drug culture of the late 1960s.
Characters and scenes from comic books became trendy subject matter for blacklight posters in the early 1970s as the visual appeal of psychedelic art waned. Third Eye, a New York-based poster publisher, produced blacklight Marvel comics posters during this time. Comic book posters were originally published as promotional materials, but today they are valued as collectible art, appearing for sale in both online and offline auctions.
Blacklight posters advertised concerts, musicians and bands. Posters of recording artists like the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, Sonny and Cher, Bob Marley and the Rolling Stones are still sought after and highly collectible. Blacklight posters associated with 1960s music capture the enthusiasm, energy and free expression that defined the era.
With their symbols of freedom and rebellion, blacklight posters reflect the hippie movement of the 1960s. Peace signs, political slogans and multicultural references appear on the posters, along with popular emblems and catchphrases. Serious issues such as civil rights, the Vietnam War and the sexual revolution emerged as themes for blacklight posters. Other popular themes are environmental activism, Eastern religions and astrology.