Ralph had been quite close for a few weeks, things had not been well. Sad to say he passed away earlier today.
I still recall my first visit to his house, can't believe I learned so much in a single day. And to boot: being made a meatloaf sandwich and handed a beer while we talked all over the map about art, illustration, model building, his experiences, what was next for both of us.
When I pulled out my sketchbook and we talked I'd been feeling pretty good about my chances in film design, then it was his turn to go through some of his drawings, paintings, etc... he opened with his color 'sketch' of the opening matte from Star Wars. I was floored. Everything about the painting... it was incredible.
And so was he. Quiet, unassuming, striving. Hardly an ounce to his ego, the Oscar collected dust, and he seemed usually to be thinking about what could be next after so many experiences, opportunities. Examples in many parts of life, and a great self-deprecating but observant wit.
Good-bye Ralph, thanks my friend.
I still recall my first visit to his house, can't believe I learned so much in a single day. And to boot: being made a meatloaf sandwich and handed a beer while we talked all over the map about art, illustration, model building, his experiences, what was next for both of us.
When I pulled out my sketchbook and we talked I'd been feeling pretty good about my chances in film design, then it was his turn to go through some of his drawings, paintings, etc... he opened with his color 'sketch' of the opening matte from Star Wars. I was floored. Everything about the painting... it was incredible.
And so was he. Quiet, unassuming, striving. Hardly an ounce to his ego, the Oscar collected dust, and he seemed usually to be thinking about what could be next after so many experiences, opportunities. Examples in many parts of life, and a great self-deprecating but observant wit.
Good-bye Ralph, thanks my friend.