The Eyes Have It: Jar Jar Binks and Ahsoka Tano Join Jason Edmiston’s "Eyes Without a Face" Series
Jason Edmiston, the artist renowned for his captivating "Eyes Without a Face" series, is diving deeper into the vast Star Wars galaxy with his latest additions: Jar Jar Binks and Ahsoka Tano. These two iconic characters, representing vastly different corners of the Star Wars universe, are the newest subjects of Edmiston’s ongoing exploration of character through the singular lens of their eyes.
Edmiston’s "Eyes Without a Face" series has been captivating art enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados since its inception in 2015. The series strips away the extraneous details, focusing solely on the eyes of iconic characters from film, television, comics, and beyond. This minimalist approach allows viewers to connect with the essence of the character, distilling their personality and history into a single, powerful gaze.
For years, Edmiston purposefully avoided the Star Wars franchise, wanting to approach it with a unique and special perspective. In 2022, he finally took the plunge, starting with striking depictions of Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi from the Obi-Wan Kenobi series. He followed this with Princess Leia and a Stormtrooper from the original trilogy, and the menacing Darth Maul from the prequels. With the inclusion of Jar Jar Binks and Ahsoka Tano, Edmiston is expanding the scope of his Star Wars collection, showcasing his dedication to exploring the breadth and depth of the galaxy far, far away.
The new pieces, each measuring 9 x 5 inches (including the border), are available in limited editions of 300 and priced at $35 each. They will be available for purchase starting at noon ET on Friday, March 14th, exclusively at Bottleneck Gallery. Fans eager to own a piece of this unique Star Wars art should mark their calendars and prepare to act fast, as these limited-edition prints are expected to sell out quickly.
The choice of characters for this latest installment is particularly intriguing. Jar Jar Binks, the often-maligned Gungan from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, represents a controversial yet undeniable part of Star Wars history. Whether beloved or loathed, Jar Jar’s distinctive appearance and unforgettable mannerisms have cemented his place in the cultural lexicon. His large, expressive eyes, often conveying a mixture of naivety and surprise, are instantly recognizable and lend themselves perfectly to Edmiston’s signature style. The artist has captured the essence of Jar Jar’s personality, inviting viewers to reconsider their perceptions of this often-misunderstood character.
Ahsoka Tano, on the other hand, represents a more universally beloved figure within the Star Wars universe. Introduced in the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Ahsoka quickly became a fan favorite, evolving from Anakin Skywalker’s Padawan into a skilled and independent Jedi Knight. Her journey, marked by trials, tribulations, and ultimately, self-discovery, has resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. Ahsoka’s eyes, often reflecting her determination, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice, are a powerful symbol of her character. Edmiston’s depiction of Ahsoka’s eyes perfectly captures her inner strength and resilience, offering a poignant tribute to this beloved character.
The artist’s decision to focus on the animated version of Ahsoka, rather than Rosario Dawson’s live-action portrayal, is also noteworthy. While Dawson’s performance has been widely praised, the animated Ahsoka holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, representing the character’s origins and her formative years. By choosing the animated Ahsoka, Edmiston pays homage to the character’s roots and captures the purity and innocence that defined her early development.
Edmiston’s "Eyes Without a Face" series extends far beyond the Star Wars universe, encompassing hundreds of characters from various genres and mediums. A comprehensive collection of his work is available in a recently released book, offering fans a chance to explore the full scope of his artistic vision. The series demonstrates the power of visual storytelling, proving that a single pair of eyes can convey a wealth of information about a character’s personality, history, and motivations.
With the addition of Jar Jar Binks and Ahsoka Tano, Jason Edmiston continues to expand the boundaries of his "Eyes Without a Face" series, inviting viewers to engage with beloved characters in a fresh and thought-provoking way. The upcoming release of these limited-edition prints is sure to generate excitement among Star Wars fans and art collectors alike, further solidifying Edmiston’s reputation as a visionary artist with a unique and compelling perspective. The availability of these prints on March 14th at Bottleneck Gallery offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of art that not only celebrates the iconic characters of Star Wars but also explores the power of visual communication and the enduring appeal of the human gaze. Whether you’re drawn to the expressive innocence of Jar Jar Binks or the unwavering determination of Ahsoka Tano, these "Eyes Without a Face" are sure to leave a lasting impression.
