How real is real? When you want to capture the true likeness of a person, is the best way a photograph? Perhaps. As we accelerate into the 21st century, however, a new technology has emerged that, properly used, surpasses all that has come before in terms of conveying realism and indeed the very essence of human characters.No, it's not cloning- this technique involves three-dimensional computer scanning of a person and then precision output using this data to create a solid object. This buildup is then enhanced and refined using traditional sculpting and painting methods to arrive at a sculpture that is as close to reality as possible. The leading practitioners of this marriage of art and techno wizardry is a Southern California company known as Gentle Giant Studios.
Gentle Giant has for many years been the industry leader in the cutting edge technology of three-dimensional scanning. The data from this procedure is used by their talented team of sculptors, painters, and technicians and mad scientists to create prototypes, maquettes and other materials that become action figures, statues, consumer products, and the basis for filmed special effects for a variety of toy companies and film productions. Now, for the first time, they are actually creating products under their own name, beginning with a series of fifteen Star Wars mini-busts.
Dark Horse is pleased to be able to act as Gentle Giant's exclusive sales agents for these outstanding mini-busts, and will be coordinating the releases with our ongoing program of Star Wars comics and graphic novels.
The initial offering of four characters, Mace Windu, Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Padme Amidala, will be limited editions of only 2,500 numbered pieces each. Release date is slated for June 5, 2002. The second release group, which will go on sale early August, consists of Boba Fett, Jango Fett, and Zam Wesell . Final edition quantity is not yet determined on the second release, and other groupings will follow on a quarterly schedule.
The creation of these sculptures begins with the scanning process, which involves a session with the actor in question posing as their heads and bodies are scanned by sophisticated equipment that creates three-dimensional data that is a perfect representation. This data is then output into a solid buildup that reflects the precise geometry of their features and physique. At this point traditional sculpting and painting takes place, arriving at a finished piece that is remarkably true to life. To assure 100% realism, Gentle Giant also scanned the costumes and props, making these statues the closest one can come to actually owning a true bit of the Star Wars universe.
Just as visionary George Lucas has pushed the envelope in filmed entertainment and special effects with Star Wars, Gentle Giant President Karl Meyer and his team are using his characters to advance the category of collectable sculpture. Dark Horse Comics is proud to have joined them in their quest for perfection.
How real is real? Well, we can't get Samuel L. Jackson to come over to your house and sit on your bookshelf, but we think we've delivered the next best thing.
David Scroggy