Nigel Humphries - A New Hope 2021

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.

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