Iconic STAR WARS Poster Artist and Fantasy Illustrator

The Legendary Brushstrokes of Greg Hildebrandt

Greg Hildebrandt, renowned fantasy and sci-fi artist, passed away at 85. This sad news emerged just three days ago, leaving the art world mourning. Alongside his twin brother Tim, Greg’s vibrant illustrations brought to life the magical realms of J.R.R. Tolkien, Marvel, and DC Comics. However, the duo’s defining moment came in 1977 with their iconic Star Wars poster, a timeless masterpiece.

A Star Is Born in Poster Art

Back in 1977, Michigan’s own Greg and Tim Hildebrandt were tapped by 20th Century Fox. Their mission: create a dynamic new Star Wars poster for the UK audience. Fox executives wanted something brighter than Tom Jung’s U.S. version. The Hildebrandt brothers rose to the occasion. With only 36 hours to spare, they crafted an image of awe and allure.

In their rendition, Luke Skywalker flaunted an open shirt, muscles on display, while Princess Leia struck a daring pose. Though diverging from the actors’ likenesses, this vivid artwork spread worldwide. The imagery graced everything from bedsheets to t-shirts, cementing its place in pop culture.

A Legacy Beyond the Stars

The brothers Hildebrandt’s artistic journey extended far beyond a galaxy far, far away. In the ’70s, their Lord of the Rings calendars enchanted fans. They also added their talents to Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, and Harry Potter realms. Marvel enthusiasts fondly remember their Masterworks trading cards from the ’90s.

After Tim’s passing in 2006, Greg continued to captivate audiences. He contributed to Star Trek covers for IDW, among other projects. Greg’s artistic legacy is profound, leaving an indelible mark on fantasy and sci-fi. His brushstrokes defined heroic fantasy characters, shaping how generations perceive these iconic figures.

So as we bid farewell to a legend, we celebrate his vivid impact on our cultural landscape. Greg Hildebrandt painted our wildest imaginings, turning dreams into visible reality.