Godzilla vs. Mothra poster artwork by Noriyoshi Ohrai, 1992
A prolific Japanese illustrator and oil painter since the early 60s, Noriyoshi Ohrai has created works of art for almost a dozen different Godzilla films dating back to 1984, as well as countless other films such as Star Wars, The Goonies and 1981’s Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior, to name just a few. Ohrai’s bold, sci-fi illustrations have also graced the covers of fantasy and horror books and video games—most notably the pioneering video game Metal Gear.
Godzilla vs. Biollante movie poster by Noriyoshi Ohrai, 1989
The Goonies movie poster by Noriyoshi Ohrai
Sadly, Ohrai passed away at a hospital on the island of Kyushu in Miyazaki, Japan in October of last year at the age of 79. Since his passing, there have been many tributes and a few large retrospectives held in honor of the artist whose stunning work will be instantly familiar to you, even if Ohrai’s name is not.
If Ohrai’s name is familiar to you, it is likely thanks to Star Wars creator, George Lucas who commissioned Ohrai to design international posters for The Empire Strikes Back (see it here). If you happen to find yourself in Japan, the Parko Gallery X is hosting a show featuring Ohrai’s Godzilla paintings, illustrations and sketches through January 17th. The show will also feature Godzilla tribute artwork by illustrator Yuji Kaida.
Godzilla movie poster by Noriyoshi Ohrai, 1984
Plenty more after the jump…