See 100 Versions of Darth Vader's Famous Helmet At "The Vader Project"

[All photos by Shannon Cottrell for LA Weekly]

Enthusiasm for Star Wars isn't just for sci-fi geeks. In fact, the legendary trilogy is experiencing a hot moment in the art scene these days.  "The Vader Project," on display since last week on Melrose between Highland and La Brea, is comprised of 100 different versions by 100 different artists of the villainous Darth Vader's iconic helmet.

The project, initiated four years ago by Dov Kelemer and Sarah Jo Marks, is currently at its final stop in The Los Angeles Preview Exhibition until June 20, after which it will be transported to Freeman's Auction House in Philadelphia where bidders will be able to call the works their own for the right price. The helmets, adorned with disco ball shimmer, Carmen Miranda and Run-DMC motifs, may never be displayed for public eyes again once they leave L.A. and are definitely worth seeing in person. So, if you want to catch an up-close glimpse of the dark side head-wear, you better get yourself over to the exhibition by Sunday before it's too late. And don't worry, no one will think you're a dork for wanting to see 100 Vader helmets.

The Los Angeles Preview Exhibition will be on display until Sunday, June 20 from noon-6pm daily at 6812 Melrose Ave. (between Highland & La Brea), Los Angeles, CA.