The Vader Project strikes back! The pop art exhibit returns to L.A. on Friday

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Just like the Death Star, the Vader Project exhibit is destined to end up scattered across the universe -- but, beginning Friday, there is one last chance for L.A. fans to see the entire collection of 100 Darth Vader helmets re-imagined by noted artists such as Shag, Peter Kuper, Jermaine Rogers, Gary Baseman , Amanda Visell and Marc Ecko.

The Vader Project made its world premiere here in 2007 and, after circling the globe, the quirky pop art exhibit returns for its last stand -- a special 10-day exhibition at 6812 Melrose Avenue in Hollywood that serves as a preview for the July 10 auction in Philadelphia that will send the objects de Sith to the far corners of the collector galaxy. The 200-page catalog is now available for pre-order.

Admission to the L.A. preview is free. Doors will be open from noon to 6 p.m from Saturday through June 20.

There’s also an opening reception at 6 p.m. on June 11 and then at 2 p.m. on June 12 more than 20 of the Vader Project artists and designers will be on hand to autograph catalogs.

-- Geoff Boucher

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PHOTOS: The Vader Project. UPDATED: We added the address in Hollywood so you didn’t have to click on a link because, you know, that’s soooo much harder than leaving a snarky comment.