Ralph McQuarrie RIP

Sad news hit the Star Wars Universe yesterday with the passing of Ralph McQuarrie.

1929-2012

Best known for his conceptual art for the original saga of Star Wars, McQuarrie was also noted for his design work on Raiders of the Lost Ark, E.T., Back to the Future, and many other amazing films.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of such a visionary artist and such a humble man. Ralph McQuarrie was the first person I hired to help me envision Star Wars. His genial contribution, in the form of unequaled production paintings, propelled and inspired all of the cast and crew of the original Star Wars trilogy. When words could not convey my ideas, I could always point to one of Ralph's fabulous illustrations and say, 'Do it like this.'
"Beyond the movies, his artwork has inspired at least two generations of younger artists—all of whom learned through Ralph that movies are designed. Like me, they were thrilled by his keen eye and creative imagination, which always brought concepts to their most ideal plateau. In many ways, he was a generous father to a conceptual art revolution that was born of his artwork, and which seized the imaginations of thousands and propelled them into the film industry. In that way, we will all be benefiting from his oeuvre for generations to come. Beyond that, I will always remember him as a kind and patient, and wonderfully talented, friend and collaborator."
—George Lucas on StarWars.com

Let's take a look back at some of his amazing art and appreciate what Star Wars became because of his conceptual designs.

Yes, Star Wars wouldn't be the movie that we know and love without this amazing man. We own him Darth Vader and Stormtrooper armor and so many other amazing things. He will truly be missed.

Thanks to The Mary Sue, StarWars.com and Signalnoise for sahring in our sorrow and taking time to honor a wonderful man.