Honoring the Legacy of Iconic Artist Drew Struzan

Drew Struzan, an iconic movie poster illustrator, has passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of film art. His career, which started in the 1970s, spanned nearly five decades and included over 150 films.

Honoring the Legacy of Drew Struzan

Struzan’s work has left an indelible mark on cinema, especially within the beloved Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises. His artistry captivated audiences long before they entered theaters. Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy praised Struzan, noting the profound impact of his artwork. “His unforgettable illustrations have touched so many hearts throughout the years,” she remarked.

Iconic Artwork

Many fans recognize Struzan for the iconic 1978 re-release poster of *Star Wars: A New Hope*. This artwork, done in collaboration with Charles White III, showcased Struzan’s bold design and early 20th-century illustration style. The poster, affectionately known as the “Circus Poster,” features striking portrayals of characters like Luke, Leia, Han Solo, and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

George Lucas, creator of Star Wars, expressed his admiration for Struzan. “His illustrations fully captured the excitement and spirit of my films,” he said. Lucas praised Struzan’s ability to convey vibrant worlds through his art, which made him the preferred artist for numerous Star Wars and Indiana Jones posters.

Career Highlights

• Worked on *Star Wars: Return of the Jedi* and the 1997 Special Edition re-releases.
• Captivated audiences with poster art for the Indiana Jones series.
• Created countless book covers for Star Wars and Indiana Jones stories in the 1990s.

Struzan’s career began in the early 1970s with record album covers. He created notable designs for artists like the Bee Gees, Alice Cooper, and Black Sabbath. His work for Alice Cooper’s *Welcome to My Nightmare* was recognized as one of the top 100 album covers by Rolling Stone.

The Art of Movie Posters

Struzan is celebrated for defining the aesthetics of movie posters, capturing the essence of films like *Back to the Future*, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, and *Blade Runner*. His illustrations resonate with audiences and continue to inspire both artists and film fans alike.

As we honor the legacy of Drew Struzan, it is clear that his contributions to film artistry will endure. His artwork provided the first glimpse of the excitement and adventure that lay within the stories, making him a beloved figure in the industry. He will be profoundly missed.