The LEGO Ideas 21319 "Starry Night" set, a beloved masterpiece inspired by Vincent van Gogh's iconic painting, has been discontinued by the LEGO Group. Announced in 2019 as part of the LEGO Ideas series, this set captured the hearts of both LEGO enthusiasts and art aficionados alike. Let's delve into the details of this discontinuation and explore the impact it has on collectors and fans.
Understanding the LEGO Ideas Platform
Before we discuss the "Starry Night" set's discontinuation, it's essential to understand the LEGO Ideas platform. LEGO Ideas is a crowdsourcing initiative that allows LEGO fans to submit their own designs. If a design gains 10,000 votes from the LEGO community, it is reviewed by the LEGO Ideas team. If approved, the design is transformed into an official LEGO set and sold in stores.
The Creation and Success of the "Starry Night" Set
The "Starry Night" set was designed by fan LEGO user Truman Cheng. His intricate recreation of Van Gogh's masterpiece, complete with a minifigure of the artist himself, was approved for production in 2018. The set, released in 2019, became an instant hit. It featured a 24x32 baseplate, a swirling starry sky, and a detailed representation of the cypress tree and the village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The set was praised for its artistic accuracy and its ability to blend LEGO's playful nature with high art.
Why the Discontinuation?
LEGO typically discontinues sets after a certain period to make way for new products. The "Starry Night" set was no exception. Despite its popularity, it was discontinued in 2021, much to the dismay of fans. However, LEGO has assured customers that the set will remain available through secondary markets for as long as supplies last.
Impact on Collectors and Fans
The discontinuation of the "Starry Night" set has had a significant impact on collectors and fans. Many have been scrambling to secure the set before it's gone for good. The set's value has also increased in the secondary market, with some sets selling for double or even triple their original price. For those who missed out on the set, the news has been disappointing, but LEGO has promised to continue supporting the LEGO Ideas platform, offering hope for future art-inspired sets.
Alternatives for Art-Loving LEGO Fans
While the "Starry Night" set is no longer available, LEGO offers several other art-inspired sets that fans might enjoy. The LEGO Ideas 21318 "Tree House" set, designed by fan agency, is a beautiful representation of a rustic treehouse. The LEGO Ideas 21317 "Trash Truck" set by fan LEGO user BrickBoy, is a fun and detailed recreation of a garbage truck. Both sets showcase LEGO's commitment to supporting creative designs from their community.
Preserving the "Starry Night" Legacy
Even though the "Starry Night" set is discontinued, its legacy lives on. Fans have taken to social media to share their builds, inspiring others to create their own interpretations of Van Gogh's masterpiece. Some have even started petitions to bring the set back, demonstrating the power of the LEGO community. While it's uncertain if LEGO will ever bring back the "Starry Night" set, its impact on the LEGO world is undeniable.
LEGO's Commitment to Art and Creativity
Despite the discontinuation of the "Starry Night" set, LEGO remains committed to supporting art and creativity. The LEGO Ideas platform continues to be a hub for innovative designs, and LEGO has shown no signs of slowing down in their support of creative expression. Whether it's through official sets or the countless fan-created builds, LEGO continues to inspire creativity and imagination in people of all ages.
