Ralph McQuarrie (1929-2012)

Bounty Hunters in Cloud City, painting by Ralph McQuarrie

 

     Academy award-winning conceptual artist Ralph McQuarrie, best known for his work depicting the Star Wars films, has passed away at age 82. You can see galleries of his work at ralphmcquarrie.com. When I was a kid I had the novelization of Empire Strikes Back that was illustrated with his concept sketches:

     I also remember seeing his work at the "Magic of Myth" museum exhibit in the late 90's. Because his work is so strongly associated with the "Star Wars look", I always found his unused conceptions to be particularly fascinating. Some examples:

Rebel Base in Temple on Yavin

Taun-Tauns in Paradise

Emperor's Throne Room