The eagerly anticipated Star Wars Celebration Japan, set to take place in April 2025, has unveiled a remarkable collection of badge art. This exclusive series features an array of iconic characters from the Star Wars saga, rendered in the distinctive style of traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The event, held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, promises to be a visual feast for fans attending this spring.
A highlight of the unveiling is the diverse selection of characters represented in these artworks. Beyond the classic figures like Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, the collection showcases lesser-seen personalities such as Padmé and Asajj Ventress from the prequel era. Notably, the duel between Anakin and Obi-Wan on Mustafar receives special attention, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith. The sequel trilogy is also well-represented, with Kylo Ren and Rey featured prominently. Additionally, popular television characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, along with Ahsoka and Sabine, add a modern touch. Even the upcoming second season of Andor gets a nod with pieces dedicated to Cassian and Mon Mothma. The High Republic era further enriches the collection with its own unique contributions, including young Jedi adventures and scenes from The Acolyte.
This artistic endeavor not only celebrates the deep cultural ties between Star Wars and Japan but also brings to light some underappreciated aspects of the franchise. Despite the cancellation of The Acolyte, its inclusion in the badge art signifies a positive step forward, offering recognition to the show’s cast and crew. Fans can look forward to acquiring these stunning artworks in various forms—from badges to posters and merchandise—making the Star Wars Celebration Japan an unforgettable experience for all attendees.