Collectors and fans alike have a chance to own one-of-a-kind Star Wars art pieces while giving to a good cause with The Empire Muggs Back. Lucasfilm asked artists, comic book creators, toy designers, and celebrity fans armed with markers, paint brushes and glue guns to transform blank Mighty Muggs (donated by Hasbro) into custom Star Wars art which were auctioned by The Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Starwars.com chats with artist Cynthia Narcisi about her process for turning a blank Hasbro Mighty Muggs figure into a special tribute to the Little Leia fangirl.
Why did you want to participate in The Empire Muggs Back art project?
It was not only another opportunity to express my creativity with regards to Star Wars; it was a totally new (to me) concept of working three dimensionally. I was a bit nervous at first, in terms of painting on an unusual surface like a Mighty Mugg, but I dove in. The fact that this supports Make-A-Wish was another reason to dive in and paint away!
What did you choose to do for your Mighty Muggs art piece?
I had wanted to a Han Solo themed Mugg and decided to tie this in to my Little Leia character, the one who appeared on my Celebration III print. It's another tribute to my favorite character.
What was your step-by-step process? What materials did you use?
I primed it with gesso, and painted it with acrylics. I used Styrofoam to shape the buns, and yard for the hair. Bangs were applied individually. It was like surgery! I made her backpack from felt and hand-bound the sketchbook inside (two or three stitches, pretty easy). I found miniature colored pencils at Michael's to put inside also. I couldn't' resist. Her lightsaber blade is actually a piece from a pipe for blowing bubbles. It fit perfectly!
What were some of the challenges you faced while making your art piece?
I tried to sew together a miniature toy Yoda to stick into her backpack, but had some trouble getting it small enough. I was also running out of time, and so I decided to save Yoda for another day.
Why do you think Star Wars fans will love The Empire Muggs Back project?
They're going to love the individuality of each Mugg and the way each artist approached their piece. I know everyone, myself included, was really excited about this project. On top of that, the Muggs are totally cute!
Read more in-depth coverage on The Empire Muggs Back.
