Radar Laser Cannon Photoart
Photoart is related to toy packaging in the same way original sculptings are related to action figures. In other words, while an original sculpting serves as the master item from which all corresponding toys figures are derived, the photoart serves as the master from which the toy packaging derives. Given this fact, it's not surprising that photoart is held in high regard by pre-production collectors.

The first piece of Radar Laser Cannon photoart corresponds to the image used on the packaging's front face. As such, it is the most appealing and detailed of the images. Airbrushed highlights extensively exist amongst various regions of the foreground cannon. Additionally, noticable detail simulating the "blow apart" action exists on the background cannon.

The second image again exhibits extensive photo augmentation in the form of background airbrushing and motion simulating paint application.

Hand applied detail is utilized to simulate the cannon's pivoting capabilities in the third photoart piece. Again, extensive background airbrushing is present.

Hand applied details serve to simulate a back and forth movement for the upper cannon region in the fourth piece. As one can probably guess, once again we see extensive background airbrush work.

Each piece of photo art features black foldover covers exhibiting the name of the firm contracted by Kenner for massive amounts of packaging artwork.

As the final photo conveys, the photo art exists as part of an extensive series that Broc Walker has assembled for the Radar Laser Cannon. The collection includes pre-production items like original photoart, photography negatives, packaging Dylux, and box flats in addition to various boxed production pieces.

Description by: Michael G. Mensinger
Photo: Broc Walker
From the collection of: Broc Walker
Country:United States
Film:Empire Strikes Back
Licensee:Kenner
Year:1980
Category:Prototypes / Product Artwork


  


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