John Berkey, whose artwork fans may recognize from early printings of 1977's Star Wars novelization, recently passed away on April 29.
While Berkey was one of the first artists George Lucas approached to design the Star Wars theatrical poster in 1976/77, it was his famous book cover artwork depicting Luke, Leia, the droids and Darth Vader that thirty-something fans may remember most clearly -- the first image that greeted readers to that galaxy far, far away. A second Berkey illustration featuring a frenzied dogfight over the Death Star was also published early on, a free poster inserted into first pressings of the Star Wars soundtrack album.
In memory of John Berkey, we're sharing the eleven known illustrations he composed for Star Wars, most of which were simple rough sketches he used to work toward the final, polished illustrations. Few realize Berkey also illustrated a piece of artwork to grace the Return of the Jedi video game cartridge and promotional poster, included here in the slideshow.
Ironically, Berkey, who composed two of the most recognizable Star Wars illustrations to date, never actually saw the film that inspired them. Even so, his artwork contributions to the early novel and soundtrack poster remain deeply branded in the memory of those who experienced Star Wars for the very first time over three decades ago.
Berkey's career expands far beyond Star Wars, of course -- to see more from this famed artist, check out some of the artist's galleries posted here and here.
