In an event that will cause ripples across the galaxy, signed Star Wars artwork will be going under the hammer next weekend in a once-in-a-lifetime charity auction.
MCM Birmingham Comic Con are going to be hosting the auction at the NEC on Sunday 22 November (which we will be there to cover the show - ed). It will feature 21 individually signed Ralph McQuarrie prints of original Star Wars concept artwork, with all proceeds going to Acorns Children’s Hospice.
Donated anonymously for the auction, the prints each feature the Star Wars Corporation embossed logo and were commissioned by George Lucas himself to help conceptualise the first Star Wars films.
Each piece of artwork features scenes and characters instantly recognisable to fans of the films, including C3PO, an X-wing and Darth Vader. Sally Insley, community fundraising manager at Acorns, said: “The images are out of this world, so this really is a one-off opportunity for one lucky individual.
“We are incredibly grateful to the donor for making these available because we rely on funds raised by the public to help support the work of Acorns and its care for children and families across the region.”
An exhibition of the prints will be on display at Comic Con, before the auction at 3pm on Sunday, overseen by Leamington firm, Hawkesford estate agents.
Bryan Cooney, Managing Director of MCM Birmingham Comic Con, said: “It’s an honour to be hosting the auction for these pieces of art, which visitors to the NEC will be privileged to see first-hand.
“The visuals are stunning and illustrate not only George’s vision but have also helped to influence some of the most well-known sci-fi and movie characters in history. Once the auction finishes, one lucky bidder will be in possession of a genuine piece of movie history.”
For those who don't know, Acorns provide specialist round the clock care for life-limited and life-threatened children and young people. In the past year the charity has cared for over 760 children and more than 980 families, including those who are bereaved.
To continue its care, Acorns must raise more than £9 million every single year for its three hospices and relies on fundraising, for the majority of this amount.
For anyone interested in bidding on the items, this can be done in person at MCM Birmingham Comic Con, or by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/starwars
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