While not specifically a
photographer; the art of Ralph McQuarrie managed to become
iconic as the production
design stills of the “Star Wars” saga. Throughout his work; he
managed
to help define the distinct
visual style of the entire franchise through the many paintings he
made.
There are at least 20
design stills that helped determine the initial look of the first
film
before filming even began.
Notable ones included concept art of the droids, C3P0 and R2D2
amongst the sands of
Tatooine (filmed on location later in Tunisia, Africa). Another key
still is
an early concept of Darth
Vader overlooking Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia Organa; and Han
Solo; which often got used
for book covers as well as early posters. One design that often stood
out was an early lightsaber
concept which had them being wielded by the stormtroopers; before
it was decided that they
would be weapons unique to the Jedi and Sith.
Despite his death in 2012 at
age 89; Ralph McQuarrie's concept art remains highly
influential in the
franchise. For the new TV series; “Star Wars Rebels,” the
animation staff
studied many of his designs
to determine the look and feel of the series. JJ Abrams, when he
began filming “Star Wars
Episode VII,” decided to limit CGI unless it was absolutely
necessary;
in order to capture
McQuarrie's touch in the form of physical sets and costumes. Even
though
McQuarrie may be gone; his
work shall remain strong with the Force...
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