George Lucas, the renowned creator of the Star Wars franchise, has revealed in a recent interview that he has “moved past” the iconic series, 13 years after selling it to Disney for a staggering $4 billion. The acclaimed filmmaker made this statement in an interview with WSJ. Magazine, as he and his wife, Mellody Hobson, discussed their latest venture – the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles, scheduled to open next year.
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Reflecting on the transition of Star Wars to Disney, Lucas acknowledged that the new owners have infused the franchise with their vision. He expressed his detachment from the series, stating, “Of course I’ve moved past it. I mean, I’ve got a life. I’m building a museum. A museum is harder than making movies.” This statement highlights Lucas’ focus on his current project and his commitment to exploring new artistic endeavours beyond the galaxy far, far away.
Having sold Lucasfilm and the rights to Star Wars to Disney in 2012, George Lucas has shifted his creative energy towards the ambitious task of establishing a narrative art museum in Los Angeles. The sale of his iconic creation for such a significant sum marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to explore new avenues of storytelling and artistic expression through the museum project.
Disney’s stewardship of the Star Wars franchise has seen the release of several new movies and television series, including the popular Disney+ show, The Mandalorian. As Lucas delves into the intricacies of curating his museum, one of the inaugural exhibits will feature designs of the iconic vehicles from the Star Wars universe. Despite this nod to his legendary creation, Lucas admitted to including the exhibit somewhat reluctantly to appease fans.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, George Lucas has embraced personal milestones, including his marriage to Mellody Hobson in 2013 and the birth of their daughter, Everest, in 2012. With a rich family life and a legacy of groundbreaking storytelling, Lucas continues to make an indelible mark on the world of narrative art. His appearance at Comic-Con in July, where he shared his vision for the museum as a tribute to ‘the people’s art,’ underscores his commitment to celebrating diverse artistic genres and voices.
The upcoming Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles promises to be a comprehensive collection bridging various artistic genres, from American art to contemporary African American works. Lucas and Hobson’s collaborative effort to assemble this diverse array of artworks reflects their dedication to creating a space that honours storytelling in its myriad forms. As the museum’s 11-acre campus takes shape, it stands as a testament to their shared vision of promoting inclusive and dynamic artistic expression.
In conclusion, George Lucas’ journey from the realm of Star Wars to the realm of narrative art exemplifies a transition fuelled by creativity, vision, and a desire to explore new frontiers. As he prepares to unveil the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, his legacy continues to evolve, inspiring generations with his innovative spirit and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. The museum stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of storytelling and his unwavering dedication to creating immersive experiences that transcend time and space.