The art world is mourning the loss of Drew Struzan, a distinguished illustrator and poster designer, who has passed away at the age of 78 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. The news was confirmed through a heartfelt message on Struzan’s official Instagram account, which highlighted his deep appreciation for the support he received from fans over the years.
Struzan’s legacy is woven into the fabric of film history, particularly through his iconic movie posters created during the 1970s to the 1990s. His work includes unforgettable designs for legendary franchises such as Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and Back to the Future, as well as other films like Blade Runner. Renowned filmmaker Greg Boas, who produced the documentary “Drew: The Man Behind the Poster” in 2013, has been a close associate, bringing Struzan’s artistic journey to light alongside insights from industry legends like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
Starting his career with album covers, including Alice Cooper’s “Welcome to My Nightmare,” Struzan soon became known for his airbrushed posters. His design for “Star Wars: A New Hope” has become a cultural emblem, adorning countless walls for decades. Struzan’s ability to create stunning artwork in remarkably short timeframes was exemplified by his overnight work on the poster for John Carpenter’s horror classic “The Thing.”
Although he announced his retirement in 2008, Struzan maintained a connection to the industry, contributing comic cover art and revisiting the Star Wars universe. His influence on cinematic art remains unparalleled, and he leaves behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire artists and fans alike. As the film community reflects on his remarkable contributions, Struzan’s artistic spirit will undoubtedly be cherished for generations to come.