The Star Wars saga has become a cult phenomenon over the years. This is a story told so many different and reflective ways that the stories deserve their own special library. Many Americans grew up on Star Wars and became enamored by its subtle messages of possibility and the expanse of the universe. What many fans of this saga may not be aware of is the amount of actual art that goes into the presentation of this magnitude.
From things like promotional posters to in film artwork has to be done to ensure that a production of this size is everything that the public expects and more. One of the artists who has literally become legendary when it comes to their work in cinema, especially as it is associated with films is Drew Struzan, but most people don’t know who he is. So, here are five things that will help you become more familiar with this great artist.
1. He Has Designed Covers for Dark Horse Comics
In addition to his associated with the poster work for Star Wars, Struzan has also done cover work for Dark Horse Comics. While this may not appear to be a major accomplishment, it is the cover of magazines that entice kids and adults alike to pick them up and buy them. It is Drew’s masterful work that gives the magazine the appeal that demands that buyers take a look inside and the story grabs them from there.
2. Played an Integral in The Indiana Jones Trilogy
While every who knows him associates him with Star Wars, he has had a very impressive career – putting in work for a number of huge projects. One of those projects is the Indiana Jones trilogy. If you are old enough to remember when Indiana Jones was first released, you may remember the awesome artwork that was used to promote the film. That work was produced by none other than Drew Struzan, and his movie resume is quite extensive.
3. He Also Does Album Covers
There is no argument that some of the best album covers are the result of extraordinary photography; however, we would be remiss to point out that some of the greatest album covers have also been some of the most impressive art work ever. Struzan has done covers for Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, Earth Wind & Fire, the Beach Boys and more. When you examine the list of bands he has done covers for, it will give you an impression of how impactful his work is.
4. He Has Even Received Accolades From Rolling Stone Magazine
Rarely does anyone truly give the album cover the consideration it deserves. Much like the comic book cover, the album cover has the ability to reach and grab the attention of a music store shopper who is immersed in a sea of albums and totally lost as to which album they will purchase next. Whether they know it or not, it will likely be the album cover that helps them make their final decision. Struzan received a vote from Rolling Stone magazine for his cover for Alice Cooper’s Welcome to My Nightmare.
5. Based on His Impact He Was Underpaid
According to one source, at the time that Struzan received his accolades from Rolling Stone magazine, he was still only earning between $150 to $250 for each album cover that he did. When you understand the impact of his artwork and what he has meant to the world of entertainment, it is unfathomable to think that is all that he was worth at that time. Well, he is finally getting the recognition he deserves.
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