Today, blotter art is largely devoid of any narcotics. The art form evolved beyond its original utilitarian function into a legitimate and standalone form of artistic expression. His expansive collection, often referred to as the “Shulgin Collection”, named after the famed chemist Alexander Shulgin, holds a dazzling array of over 30,000 unique blotter art pieces.Īs the decades progressed, the production and possession of LSD became increasingly targeted by law enforcement, pushing blotter art to adapt. Notable blotter artists such as Mark McCloud, a San Francisco-based collector and artist, played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of blotter art. Iconography from Eastern spirituality, indigenous cultures, fantasy, and science fiction were common themes. These artworks often featured complex patterns, vivid colors, and hallucinogenic imagery. Much of the early blotter art was heavily influenced by the psychedelic experience itself. Artists began to view these tiny squares of paper as a canvas, a place to showcase elaborate and psychedelic artwork. While initially these blotter papers bore simple designs or markings, as interest in psychedelic culture grew, so did the complexity and vibrancy of these illustrations. The decorated blotters became both a means of transportation and a method of identification for different types of LSD. The drug was applied to sheets of perforated blotter paper, which were then adorned with various designs. The blotter paper, with its highly absorbent qualities, was used as a medium to distribute lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). In its infancy, blotter art served a utilitarian purpose. The hippie ethos of freedom, rebellion, and altered consciousness laid the groundwork for this distinct form of art. Though initially intertwined with the world of psychedelics, blotter art has transcended its controversial roots and has blossomed into a respected and fascinating form of pop art.īlotter art traces its roots back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, a period infused with countercultural movements and a growing interest in psychedelia. How Has Blotter Art Progressed Throughout History?īlotter art, a vibrant and intriguing facet of modern-day counter-culture, encapsulates a rich tapestry of social movements, psychedelic exploration, and artistic expression. The paper’s texture can range from fairly rough to relatively smooth, depending on how it’s processed and its intended use. It’s generally heavier than standard paper and has a unique property that allows it to efficiently soak up liquids, making it useful in a range of applications.īlotter paper is often made from cotton and exhibits a high level of absorbency due to the loose, porous structure of the cotton fibers. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of blotter paper, minus its association with lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) – for now.īlotter paper refers to a type of highly absorbent paper known for its sponge-like characteristics. This unassuming material, which often gets overlooked, holds its own story worth exploring. Its applications span various domains, from artistry and advertising to chemistry and pharmaceuticals. In a world teeming with high-tech gadgets and sophisticated technology, the humble blotter paper holds a remarkably unique and versatile role.
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