In this collection international abstract artist Alex Echo embodies the themes and power of shape-shifting, demonstrating his continuously evolving techniques.
A NEW HOPE
Featuring a convoy of Star Wars ’ best-known characters – including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewbacca and Darth Vader – Nigel Humphries’ intergalactic new collection was just like “revisiting an old friend” for the popular miniature painter. “When I saw the very first Star Wars film as a child, I knew that I had seen something special,” he explains. “I loved the characters, the overall design, the good- versus-bad storyline and, of course, the unforgettable soundtrack by John Williams. I knew it was something unique, and it set the bar for all of the sci-fi films that came afterwards.” Nigel’s established concept of creating sets for his figurines calls to mind bygone days of childhood, countless hours rooted in endlessly imaginative play. His signature backdrops, carefully constructed to resemble a homemade stage or movie set, root his characters firmly within their given scenes and give mesmeric depth to each image. Blink, and you could be forgiven for wondering if these figures come to life once the adults stop watching.
The five hand-signed, limited edition prints from A New Hope each tell a unique story. Han Solo, R2-D2, C-3PO and the famed stormtrooper join the cast for a thrilling adventure through a galaxy far, far away. In the background of each piece is an additional narrative within Nigel’s signature ripped paper motif, including an X-Wing craft and the Millennium Falcon fleeing a group of TIE fighters. To capture the costume designs and action poses of his characters, Nigel revisited the first three original films: Star Wars (Episode IV) (1977), Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983). Describing the project as a “dream come true”, he adds: “My mind went into overdrive thinking of all the possibilities I could paint.” Presented as hand-varnished giclée prints on canvas, these small-scale artworks are fantastic for any blank wall space and can be mixed and matched. Intricate details include a gold or silver inlay, which Nigel says highlights the colours within each piece and adds the finishing touch.
BROWSE COLLECTION ONLINE
A FAMILY AFFAIR Hand Varnished Giclée on Canvas Edition of 495 Image size 43cm x 35.5cm | Framed Size 61cm x 53cm £350 Framed
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A DROID Hand Varnished Giclée on Canvas Edition of 495 Image size 43cm x 35.5cm | Framed Size 61cm x 53cm £350 Framed
AGAINST ALL ODDS Hand Varnished Giclée on Canvas Edition of 495 Image size 43cm x 35.5cm | Framed Size 61cm x 53cm £350 Framed
THE IMPERIAL SOLDIER Hand Varnished Giclée on Canvas Edition of 495 Image size 35.5cm x 35.5cm | Framed Size 53cm x 53cm £295 Framed
THE DARK SIDE
Hand Varnished Giclée on Canvas Edition of 495 Image size 35.5cm x 35.5cm | Framed Size 53cm x 53cm £295 Framed
“WHEN I SAW THE VERY FIRST STAR WARS FILM AS A CHILD, I KNEW THAT I HAD SEEN SOMETHING SPECIAL.”
NIGEL HUMPHRIES
BEH I ND THE SCENES
For this new series, Nigel experimented with a layered painting style influenced by the classical impasto technique. This Italian word describes a thicker application of paint that allows artists to build up texture. Originally painting in oils on a fine-grain Italian canvas, he used these layers to capture the different textures of his characters. He explains: “They all have different weapons, I’ve been replicating Chewbacca’s fur as best as I can, and there are metal objects – so it’s about bringing out the shine and different colours. This technique also lends itself well to the armour. I like the stormtroopers to look like they’ve just come back from a skirmish, so they’re a bit battleworn.” When asked whether he had a preference for painting the light side or the dark side, the lovable artist had a rather surprising answer! “If I had to choose, I think I enjoy painting the bad guys,” he told us with a grin. “For me, they have great uniforms, and fantastic military crafts and vehicles. That doesn’t mean to say I’ve turned to the dark side!”
EXCLUS IVE Q&A
Nigel swapped his lightsaber for a pen when he visited Castle HQ to hand-sign his limited edition prints. He was even kind enough to stay for a Q&A video for our YouTube channel. Click below to find out more!
COLLECTION VIDEO- - -
WATCH NIGEL HUMPHR I ES PLAYL I ST
The images contained within this literature are an artistic representation of the collection. To best experience our art, we recommend you contact your local gallery to arrange a viewing. © Washington Green 2021. The content of this brochure is subject to copyright and no part can be reproduced without prior permission.
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