Ben-DutkaThe Assassin's Creed titles are some of the most intricate and meticulously designed virtual experiences you'll ever see, which is why the corresponding art is worthy of a gallery showing.
Today, Ubisoft has announced that Arludik, the world renowned art gallery in Paris that specializes in film, comic and video game art, will feature a month-long exposition (running from October 5 through October 30) of original digital canvases created by various Ubisoft teams. The art will focus on the developer's critically acclaimed Assassin's Creed franchise; on display will be much of the concept art that was "used to inspire the ambiance, characters and buildings" in those games. There will be 35 individual pieces never before seen by the public, and they will be available to purchase; prices range from €600 ($820) to €2,000 ($2,725). …hey, it's original art. If that's a little too steep, fans will have the option of limited edition lithograph prints in a series of 149 each, which will go for €80 (about $100).
Every canvas will be stamped with the Ubisoft Studios seal and comes with a certificate of authenticity, and both the canvases and lithographs will be hand-signed by Ubisoft's graphic art director Mohamed Gambouz. Proceeds from the exhibit will be donated to MO5, a charity organization that preserves the history and culture of video games. Said Serge Hascoët, Chief Creative Officer at Ubisoft:
"Ubisoft is honored to showcase the outstanding artwork by the talented designers of Assassin’s Creed in the world famous Arludik gallery. This is the first time ever that Ubisoft’s creative teams have been featured in a fine art gallery, and this exposition proves that the creative work of the artists in the video game industry inspires the passion of gamers the world over."
Well, for all you arty-type people out there, this really is impressive. And it's great to see such fantastic art get taken seriously.