All Your Faves Are on View in “Star Wars and the Power of Costume”

Photo: Exhibition Design: Tom Fricker of Fricker Studio Graphic Design: Matt Rue of McGinty Co.

From Darth Vader’s sleek black helmet and flowing cape to Queen Amidala’s glorious red and gold throne room gown, the costumes in the Star Wars series have always been one of the most glorious spectacles of the films. Each character is deftly conceived in visual terms, from the shiny gold stylings of C3-PO to the cuddly fur of Wookiee Chewbaca.

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Now, a new exhibition examines the genius that goes into the creation of these iconic looks with Star Wars and the Power of Costume, currently on view at the Denver Art Museum through April 9, 2017. The exhibition presents more than 70 hand-crafted costumes from all seven blockbuster films, exploring the interplay between the character and their signature attire.

(Left) Concept Art, C-3PO and R2-D2. Star WarsTM: A New Hope. (Right) R2-D2, Star WarsTM: A New Hope and C-3PO, Star WarsTM: The Empire Strikes Back. Both images © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

In a galaxy where imagination reigns supreme, the characters of Star Wars are not cut from the same cloth. Each personality is perfectly distilled, with subtle yet specific nuances and quirks, which make them emblematic of distinct aspects of the human experience. The costumes each wears further enhances this, creating a visual spectacle that highlights their individual qualities and character traits.

Star Wars and the Power of Costume is a rich, immersive experience designed to satisfy the most discerning fan, providing layers of detail that add depth to the film experience. The exhibition takes us from conceptualization to execution of the craft, then going one step further and revealing the interplay between costume and actor. A series of exhibition videos provides a behind-the-scenes look at the relationship between designer and actor as the character comes to life through the full realization of their outfit.

The joy of Star Wars and the Power of Costume can be found in the recognition the exhibition provides, giving us an inside look at movie-making magic that has become an integral part of our lives.

Miss Rosen is a journalist covering art, photography, culture, and books. Her byline has appeared in L’Uomo Vogue, Whitewall, The Undefeated, Dazed Digital, Jocks and Nerds, and L’Oeil de la Photographie. Follow her on Twitter @Miss_Rosen.

Star Wars and the Power of Costume

"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Queen Amidala, Throne Room Gown. Star WarsTM: The Phantom Menace. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Concept Art, Queen Amidala Senate Gown. Star WarsTM: The Phantom Menace. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

R2-D2, Star WarsTM: A New Hope and C-3PO, Star WarsTM: The Empire Strikes Back. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Queen Apailana, Funeral Costume. Star WarsTM: Revenge of the Sith. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Mas Amedda, Senate Robes. Star WarsTM: Revenge of the Sith. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Luminara Unduli, Jedi Robes. Star WarsTM: Attack of the Clones. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Darth Sidious, Senate Chamber Robes. Star WarsTM: Revenge of the Sith. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Obi Wan Kenobi, Jedi Robes. Star WarsTM: The Phantom Menace. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Padmé Amidala, Lake Retreat Dining Gown with Feathered Cape. Star WarsTM: Attack of the Clones. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Concept Art, Bail Organa Senate Robes. Star WarsTM: Revenge of the Sith. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.
"Star Wars and the Power of Costume" Exhibit at the Denver Art Museum

Tusken Raider, Female Costume. Star WarsTM: Attack of the Clones. © & TM 2017 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.