That Smoke is... Smokin!
/Today’s guest article comes from Noah Hennings (h2brick).
Over many years, Star Wars creations have evolved into much more than the Clone Bases of old. Individual styles mixed with new and old LEGO elements (with techniques both simplistic and parts intensive) in layouts that tell stories and more importantly, showcase the characters that populate these dioramas.
As we celebrate Star Wars Day, let’s take a look at one such creation that I came across which includes some of these aspects.
From the cold and rocky landscape of Rhen Var, we have a scene built by Wout showing various features from the well-known planet in this vast universe. There’s a lot to uncover so let’s start with the centerpiece, the crashed Republic Gunship.
This section of the build alone packs so many details, colors and elements—it’s a wonderful representation of how far builds in this particular theme have come. As seen in the pictures below, provided by Wout himself, the explosion is made up of various minifigure accessories and detail pieces.
The combination with the front section of the ship and Clone Trooper taking cover behind works so well in this environment. The clever positioning of the arms does so much to convey emotion from the trooper—even with the static helmet.
Speaking of the environment, the chaotic scene and changes in terrain oddly enough have a balance. The various crates, panels, statues and supplies help provide some extra filler and detail as well. From the light-blueish-grey paths, the dark-blueish-grey rocks, and white snow that covers the landscape, there exists a structure and flow in this build that is complemented by the black border below—providing a base to where this all starts.
Last but not least, the characters. Straight out-of-the-box clone troopers from official LEGO sets can get repetitive, so modifying them with existing elements or third-party products, especially for larger scenes like this, helps provide something extra special. (Like these arms and gloves from EclipseGrafx.) While the Super Battle Droids might not be modified, their presence and bold look make for the perfect foe in this combat.
I reached out to Wout to ask a bit more about this creation.
Noah: Since it is Star Wars Day and many of your creations are of the same theme, I’m curious what does Star Wars mean to you?
Wout: To me, Star Wars means a galaxy where everything is possible—engaging in it can really drag me into the “Galaxy Far Far Away” and help me forget about the (sometimes) harsh reality we live in. I am a Star Wars fan from when I was a very young kid, like most of us I suppose. So it really can make me happy whether I’ve had a good or a bad day.
Noah: This build is additionally a part of the 253rd Legion. What has your time with that group and those builders specifically taught you in terms of MOC building?
Wout: I’ve been a part of that group for a very long time already since 2013 or 2014, I think. So, I’ve definitely grown as a builder and drawn a lot of inspiration from seeing all of the other members’ MOCs. I think in terms of MOC building I can say that I learned a lot of new techniques and have gained a lot of inspiration for my builds from my fellow members.
I’ve also learned that a MOC doesn’t need to be big to look amazing. In small builds, you can often put a lot more detail. I’m not the best storyteller as well, but my storytelling skills have definitely improved since I first joined the group!
Noah: Lastly, you mentioned on your Instagram how you’re “not that much of a vehicle builder.” If you were into building vehicles, what’s one from Star Wars that you’d want to make?
Wout: There are actually two vehicles I would love to make. First, an Acclamator-class Assault Ship and second, the Quarren Crab Cannon from the 2003 Clone Wars Miniseries. I surprisingly liked building that crashed gunship, so I might end up making these two someday.
How do you celebrate Star Wars Day? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
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