The Art of GALACTIC CANTINA – Mathilde Machuel

The French graphic designer Mathilde Machuel created the official artwork for GALACTIC CANTINA, which we are now pleased to present here.

Mathilde is a passionate Star Wars/Disney fan and has already designed the cover of Journal of the Whills #108 (the exclusive subscription issue of the Official Star Wars Magazine) for us. The dedicated artist will be a guest at CCON | COMIC CON STUTTGART 2023 as part of GALACTIC CANTINA with a booth and program items. To get you in the mood, here’s a lightning interview with Mathilde Machuel.

Mathilde, first of all, thank you for giving GALACTIC CANTINA “a face” through your atmospheric artwork. What inspired you in the design?

I’ve been working on a travel poster series inspired by the Star Wars galaxy for a few years now. I take inspiration from the old travel advertising of the 20s and 30s, which is art deco style and uses a geometric and simple design. For GALACTIC CANTINA, I wanted to create a place reminiscent of Star Wars. The concept is along the lines of the Black Spire Outpost, mixed with Tatooine and Coruscant. In other words, a place that reflects entertainment and galactic adventure/atmosphere.

What special relationship do you personally have with the Star Wars theme?

I was captivated by the films from a young age. I discovered Star Wars when I was 6 years old. It happened at school before Christmas break. Our teacher had brought the VHS of A New Hope and we watched it on a small TV. Then I watched The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and the Ewoks movies. But I didn’t become a Star Wars fan until the prequels. I was 9 years old when The Phantom Menace came out, and I grew up with that trilogy. My parents like Star Wars too, but not as much as I do. I share my passion with my sister and my best friend. It’s a big galaxy with strong themes. A modern mythology with universal themes. And it inspires me every day.

You also have numerous works with Disney motifs in your portfolio. Have you already worked officially for the most famous mouse in the world?

In 2020, I created an artwork with Captain America for Disneyland Paris’ fan art contest to celebrate the reopening of Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel. My work was chosen in the top 5, I was very happy. I would love to work officially for Disney, because it’s a universe that I’ve loved since I was a kid and from which I love to create new things today. There are many possibilities to work on it.

Is there a dream project in the artistic field that you would like to realize?

I would love to design new clothes based on the Star Wars galaxy. I know that this kind of stuff already exists, but it’s really difficult to get it in Europe. It would also be inspired by the saga, but it would be suitable for everyday use and the geek touch would be subtle. I’ve already done some concept drawings, but I haven’t really done more. But right now, I’d like to create official licensed artwork. People often ask me when I’m going to sell my works. I’ve designed a lot of t-shirts, and it would be great if I could sell them worldwide. I would love to be at the Star Wars Celebration in Japan in 2025.

But before that, we look forward to welcoming you to CCON | COMIC CON STUTTGART 2023 as part of GALACTIC CANTINA. What program items and activities can our visitors look forward to with you?

I am very excited about GALACTIC CANTINA and look forward to meeting and discussing with Star Wars fans. I will be presenting my work and influences in a stage panel. I will also be presenting some limited edition artwork at my booth, which I will be signing, and offering more info about my work. My team will be there to help and answer questions.

Mathilde, thanks a lot for your answers and see you soon in Stuttgart!