‘Future Pastime’ Spotlights Iconic Illustrations of ‘Blade Runner’ Artist Syd Mead

In the glow of the highways illuminated by lasers, reminiscent of TRON, and in the neon-lit dystopia that mirrors Blade Runner, the late artist Syd Mead has depicted the vibrant and ominous possibilities of a future human civilization through his iconic Sci-Fi illustrations and paintings. A tribute exhibition to celebrate Mead’s illustrious career as a designer is now open for visitors.

The works of Syd Mead, an artist known for his depictions of futuristic landscapes from movies like TRON and Blade Runner, are currently on display in an exhibition that honors his prolific design career.)

Under the title “Future Pastime“, this presentation is all about Mead’s remarkable skill in constructing vast universes within a simple 2D framework, accompanied by his grand, film-like drawings that influenced visionaries such as George Lucas and Joe Johnston.

This talk titled “Future Pastime” will explore how Mead crafts big worlds using just 2D design, and how his artwork resembles movies, inspiring people like George Lucas and Joe Johnston.

Over the course of a distinguished career, Mead significantly developed his drawing skills while working for several prominent companies. He began his journey as an aspiring studio artist employed by Ford Motor Company in 1959. Subsequently, he produced promotional materials for U.S. Steel. His professional standing was further enhanced through collaborations with Chrysler, General Electric, Sony, Toyota, and Phillips, who were drawn to the futuristic elements and innovative ideas present in his work.

Immediately following his encounter with Hollywood, Robert Wise asked Mead to create storyboards for the movies “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” (1979), “TRON” directed by Steven Lisberger, and “Blade Runner,” directed by Ridley Scott, in the same year.

Syd didn’t merely envision the future; he constructed it. His visions have significantly influenced how we conceive, design, and envision tomorrow. From the cars we drive to the cities we construct, the movies we watch to the technologies we strive for, our collective perception of the future has been significantly molded by his work.

Future Pastime will go on view from March 27 through May 21 at the address below.

Syd Mead: Future Pastime
534 W 26th St.
New York, NY 10001

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2025-03-20 21:55