Drew Struzan, iconic poster designer for ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones,’ has passed away at the age of 78.

Drew Struzan, the acclaimed poster artist renowned for his iconic artwork for films such as “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones,” and “Back to the Future,” has passed away at the age of 78. His family announced that he succumbed to complications from Alzheimer’s disease, marking the end of a significant chapter in the world of cinematic art.

On October 13, 2023, the artist’s official Instagram account shared a message conveying the loss. The post highlighted Struzan’s appreciation for the admiration he received for his art throughout his career, reflecting the profound impact he had on both the film industry and fans worldwide.

Struzan’s artistic journey began at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California. After completing his education, he joined the design studio Pacific Eye & Ear in Los Angeles during the early 1970s, where he gained recognition for creating album covers for famous music artists including The Beach Boys and Alice Cooper. This early experience laid the groundwork for his future in film poster design.

His breakthrough in the film industry came when he was commissioned by 20th Century Fox to craft a poster for a re-release of “Star Wars.” This pivotal moment established Struzan as a leading figure in Hollywood’s promotional art, affectionately referred to as the “one-sheet wonder.” Over the following decades, he produced visual representations for an array of blockbuster films, including “The Muppet Movie,” “Blade Runner,” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” as well as all four films in the “Indiana Jones” series.

Struzan’s work extended beyond film posters; he also designed the original logo for Industrial Light & Magic, the pioneering special effects studio founded by George Lucas. His artistry was characterized by a distinctive style that combined realism with an emotional resonance, making his work instantly recognizable and beloved.

Although he officially retired in 2008 after completing the poster for “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” Struzan occasionally returned to create art for special events or limited re-releases. Unfortunately, as he battled Alzheimer’s, his ability to paint and engage with fans diminished.

Drew Struzan is survived by his wife, Dylan, his son Christian, and his grandchildren. His legacy as a pioneering art creator in the film industry will endure, as his works continue to inspire future generations of artists and filmmakers. The film and art communities mourn the loss of a visionary whose contributions have left an indelible mark on cinematic history.

For those who wish to pay tribute to Struzan’s illustrious career, his extensive portfolio can be explored through various online platforms, celebrating the art behind some of modern cinema’s most memorable moments.