Where did grateful dead bears originate?

The Grateful Dead bears originated as part of the artwork associated with the Grateful Dead, particularly through the band's iconography created by artist Bob Thomas. The bears first appeared in the 1970s as part of the band's promotional materials and merchandise, representing the different personalities of the band's fans, known as "Deadheads." The colorful bears have since become iconic symbols of the Grateful Dead and its enduring legacy in music and culture.