The Fascinating Story Behind Grateful Dead Needlepoint Belt Dancing Bears

The Grateful Dead, a legendary rock band known for their eclectic music and iconic artwork, has left a lasting legacy in the world of music and art. One of the most beloved and enduring symbols of the band is the dancing bear, which originated from a unique album cover design created by Bob Thomas, an old friend of the band's sound engineer, Owsley Stanley III.

The story begins with the creation of the album 'Bear's Choice,' a tribute to Pigpen who had recently passed away. The album featured all tracks selected by Owsley, and its cover art was designed by Thomas, incorporating bears in keeping with the album's theme. This was the first official appearance of the Grateful Dead bears as we know them today.

The dancing bear design features five different bears, each one a different color and drawn in a different marching position. If lined up in a flip book and flipped through quickly, they would appear to be actually marching along. The proper order is purple, green, yellow, orange, and red, carefully arranged for the marching positions to flow naturally.

Owsley Stanley III, also known as Bear, was an enigmatic figure with a multitude of talents. He was a chemist, sound engineer, and artist who developed a unique form of dancing at concerts while high on acid. This peculiar habit earned him his nickname, which has stuck to this day.

The Grateful Dead bears have become an iconic symbol of the band, appearing on various album covers, merchandise, and even a needlepoint belt design. The story behind their creation is as fascinating as it is intriguing, reflecting the creative and experimental spirit of the Grateful Dead era.

In conclusion, the Grateful Dead Needlepoint Belt Dancing Bears are more than just a cute design; they represent a piece of music history that continues to captivate fans worldwide. The story of Owsley Stanley III, the band's sound engineer and artist, adds a layer of intrigue, highlighting the complex and creative minds behind the Grateful Dead's iconic artwork.

Grateful dead needlepoint belt dancing bears