Nathan Hamill, whose family connection to the Star Wars universe comes courtesy of father Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), recently joined the ranks of artists contributing their talents to the fourth series of Topps Star Wars Galaxy trading cards.
In addition to the standard set of 120 cards that make up the set, Hamill has composed over 100 individual sketch cards to be inserted into random packs for the series, each depicting one of twelve different Star Wars denizens from the classic trilogy (six cards are currently available at auction -- see below). Hamill has expanded his artistry to vinyl toys as well, and will be unveiling his debut figure -- Boris -- this Spring.
We asked Nathan about his work on the new Galaxy series, and the many influences he encountered growing up the son of Skywalker:
When did you discover your talent for illustrating?
Drawing was something that I've always gravitated towards and something that was always encouraged around the house. I've had an affinity towards it from the get-go. The first things I can remember drawing were the characters from the Mr. Men books. They're a series of British children's books that feature brightly colored and exaggerated characters like Mr. Messy, Mr. Impossible and Mr. Happy. The more I think about it, I'm sure their designs had some sort of influence on my drawings.
How did you get involved with the Topps Galaxy series?
Last summer at San Diego Comic-Con, I was approached by Chris Spitale, who works for Lucas Licensing. I can't remember how it came up actually. I'm not sure how he got the idea that I might be interested but I jumped at the chance when he mentioned it. Star Wars Galaxy has been one of my favorite series since it was first released in '92 or '93. Star Wars had been hibernating for a few years at that point. It'd been quite a while since the trilogy and years since Star Tours and Battle for Endor so it was great to have something new released. I have fond memories of just pouring over every minute detail of those cards. It was great to see so many artists explore that universe in their very unique styles.
Star Wars has become something of a family legacy for you. How does it feel contributing to something your father is so closely associated with?
It feels very familiar, yes. I've grown up amidst this thing so there's a comfortability in it. There's a certain level of solace in drawing a cartoony Chewie. It's really nice to be a part of it. It's exciting to be able to infuse your own style into something so iconic and recognizable and beloved. The trick, I guess, is to find a balance that doesn't deviate too far from either. I hope I've accomplished that.
My dad was glad to see that I was working on the cards. He was surprised how much work it took. I did one hundred plus cards, forcing me to work on them while visiting the family over Christmas to meet the deadline. My apologizes to whomever got the Admiral Ackbar card with the gravy stain.
Can you briefly discuss the auction you'll be hosting for six of your cards? Care to name your favorite?
Topps allows the sketch card artists to keep a certain number of cards for themselves to hold onto or sell. I chose my favorite six, which are up on eBay right now. My favorite is between the Ewok and Chewie. I feel they really have my stamp on them. What can I say? I'm a sucker for giant eyes.
(The following six cards are currently up for auction on eBay)
Tell us about the vinyl toy you've recently designed.
I'm producing my first vinyl figure based on an illustration of a raccoon I'd done a few years back. His name is Boris. I'm very pleased with the way it has turned out. We just sent the prototype off to the manufacturer and he will be out in May. It's an extremely exciting project for me as I've been in love with toys since I was a wee lad and am still to this day (according to my dad, my first word was "Kenner"). My apartment is crawling with them. Now I finally get to add one of my own to the collection.
Be sure and check out Nathan's official site at nathanhamill.com.
