Concept art has always played a huge role in the creation of Star Wars films, from Ralph McQuarrie’s original work on A New Hope, which brought George Lucas’ early ideas to life, to Iain McCaig’s designs of Darth Maul during the development of The Phantom Menace. Abrams’ new tome Star Wars Art: Concept, released this week, celebrates the concept art of a galaxy far, far away, with pre-production drawings and paintings from the films, TV series, video games, and more — and features a forward by filmmaker Joe Johnston, who served as a storyboard and concept artist on the original trilogy and designed Boba Fett’s costume, and an introduction from prequel trilogy (and future Star Wars films) artist Doug Chiang. Check out a special preview of selections from Star Wars Art: Concept after the jump!
Mos Eisley cantina standoff by Ralph McQuarrie. Concept art for A New Hope. Acrylic and Gouache on Illustration Board.
Betty droid, kneeling by Hajime Sorayama. Private commission. Acrylic on Illustration Board.
Alien character by Fabian Lacey. Concept art for Star Wars: 1313. Digital.
Coruscant underworld police speeder by Ryan Church. Concept art for Star Wars: 1313. Digital.
