Collectors and fans alike have a chance to own one-of-a-kind Star Wars art pieces while giving to a good cause with The Empire Muggs Back. Lucasfilm asked artists, comic book creators, toy designers, and celebrity fans armed with markers, paint brushes and glue guns to transform blank Mighty Muggs (donated by Hasbro) into custom Star Wars art which will be auctioned by The Make-A-Wish Foundation.
StarWars.com chats with artist Adam Koford about his process for turning a blank Hasbro Mighty Mugg into Greedo.
What did you choose to do for your Mighty Mugg art piece?
I chose to represent poor misunderstood Greedo's moment of demise.
Why did you want to participate in The Empire Muggs Back art project?
Star Wars has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember; not only the movies, but the toys and comics too. My kids still play with my toys from the '70s and draw lightsaber duels in their sketchbooks just like I did. Star Wars inspires creativity on lots of levels.
What was your step-by-step process? What materials did you use?
My first step was to sketch my design on paper, then I googled how to paint a Mighty Mugg. Then I washed it and painted it slowly and carefully.
What were some of the challenges you faced while making your art piece?
I had to think like a toy maker in applying the colors in their order of prominence. Also, the best piece of advice I found was to paint the neck area first.
What was it like turning a blank Mighty Mugg into your own Star Wars tribute?
I've never customized a vinyl toy before, so I was excited to get out my paint brushes and work on a physical object. So much of what I create nowadays is filtered through a computer that it's nice to rely on old-fashioned, simple tools once in a while. I was tempted to actually blast a hole in Greedo, but since it was my first one I decided to save the experimentation for next time. Also my blaster's in the shop.
Why do you think Star Wars fans will love The Empire Muggs Back project?
Artists have been reinterpreting Star Wars characters in nearly every visual discipline for over 30 years now, yet it's still fun to see a new take on familiar characters.
The final Mighty Muggs art pieces can be seen at at The Empire Muggs Back on Starwars.com.
Stay tuned to StarWars.com for in-depth The Empire Muggs Back coverage, info on the online charity auction, Mighty Mugg crafting tips and artist profiles.
