When I was around 6 years old, I got a Star Wars portfolio poster book from my dad. He got it from a garage sale, and most of posters inside were either torn or damaged.
The most pristine one was Ralph McQuarrie’s concept art of the Death Star trench run, with an X-Wing being chased by a Tie Fighter. I loved how detailed, dynamic and iconic this piece was, it was almost as if a scene of the movie was playing right in front of me. It mesmerized me so much that the poster hung on my bedroom wall for the longest time. It was Mr. McQuarrie’s art that opened my young mind to the amazing world of science fiction, and inspired me to become the mecha/sci-fi geek that I am today.
Earlier today, I found out that he passed away at the age of 82.
His amazing work has undeniably shaped how sci-fi artwork feels and looks today and for years to come. The obituary on his homepage says it best:
His influence on design will be felt forever. There’s no doubt in our hearts that centuries from now amazing spaceships will soar, future cities will rise and someone, somewhere will say… “that looks like something Ralph McQuarrie painted.”
Thank you and Rest in Peace Ralph McQuarrie, you will be missed.
HOBBYSNACKS 