'I want to spark new ideas': Architect Ma Yansong on designing the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Almost two decades after the ambitious architectural project began, George Lucas has finally unveiled his long-awaited Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles. The 10,000 square-metre building, designed by Chinese architect Ma Yansong, resembles a spaceship, with its futuristic-styling intended to bring a wide range of visual storytelling together under one roof. Its galleries feature paintings, illustrations, comics, manga and film memorabilia. Over the past 20 years, Ma has created dozens of visually striking projects in his home country and abroad, integrating nature with sleek, modern designs. He says he hopes this work will "spark curiosity and new ideas." The main attraction for many visitors will be Star Wars as the opening exhibition includes Princess Leia's costume from The Empire Strikes Back, as well as Luke Skywalker's landspeeder, C-3PO and R2-D2. But Star Wars accounts for only 7% of the entire collection. Lucas, the creator of Star Wars and Indiana Jones, says the museum is intended to honour illustrators and artists who bring existing stories to life. Drawing largely on Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson's personal collection, it contains works by artists including Norman Rockwell and Banksy, alongside children's illustration, anime, manga and comic art.