Acid Graphics vs Rave Graphics

Acid Graphics was influenced by Rave Graphics.

Original specimen in the Acid Graphics style

Acid Graphics

A maximalist 2020s revival of rave and Y2K energy—liquid chrome type, distorted metallic gradients, and psychedelic clashing visuals dialed to overload.

  • Liquid chrome and metallic 3D type
  • Warped, oily, distorted gradients
  • Holographic and iridescent textures
  • Dense, clashing maximalist layering
  • Lens-distorted, psychedelic letterforms
Full Acid Graphics guide →
Original specimen in the Rave Graphics style

Rave Graphics

The hand-drawn, fluorescent chaos of acid-house and rave flyers, anchored by the manic yellow smiley face and a cartoon riot of melting type, aliens, and dayglo swirls.

  • Yellow acid-house smiley face icon
  • Fluorescent dayglo inks on black or white stock
  • Hand-drawn cartoon characters and aliens
  • Melting, bubbly psychedelic lettering
  • Dense collage of clip art and photocopied texture
Full Rave Graphics guide →

At a glance

Acid GraphicsRave Graphics
Era2020sLate 1980s–1990s
DisciplineGraphic DesignGraphic Design
RegionGlobalUnited Kingdom, United States, Europe
FamilyDIY/Subculture, DigitalDIY/Subculture, Vernacular/Pop
Formal traitschrome, distorted-gradient, iridescent, maximalistfluorescent, hand-drawn, collage, cartoon

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