‘Poster Art of the Disney Parks’ Arriving Soon at Disney Parks
posted on May 18th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
I recently visited California, where I had one of the most amazing experiences of my Disney career. Imagineer Vanessa Hunt gave me a tour of the Walt Disney Imagineering Art Library vault in Glendale. This place houses the original art of the most iconic images from Disney Parks’ history. Incredible! Vanessa shared that fellow Imagineer Danny Handke and she have written a book for Disney Editions called “Poster Art of the Disney Parks.” This hardcover book, with cover designed by Imagineer Glendon Lee, is coming to Disney Parks at the end of May. I asked Danny about the role that attraction posters have played.
“Attraction posters entice, excite and educate guests with a preview of the adventures and experiences inside the Disney Parks,” explained Danny.
“When Disneyland park opened in 1955, it was difficult for guests to understand what a ‘theme park’ was. The Disney Imagineers needed a solution to portray their attractions to a diverse audience. The idea to use posters at Disneyland’s Main Entrance was the perfect solution.”
The book was in development for four years! They conducted extensive research by interviewing close to 20 people, including current and former artists. Vanessa said that they put extra effort into making a beautiful book that all Disney fans could enjoy.
“We made an extra effort to ensure the posters in the book were printed as color accurate as possible,” continued Vanessa. “We even found a box containing several poster concepts that had never been published until now. The most challenge part was identifying artists. While many unidentified posters artists were later identified during our interviews, there are some that remain credited to ‘Unknown Artist.’”
I asked Danny about his favorite poster.
“I love the Tokyo DisneySea posters,” said Danny. “They are interesting because they reflect an overall cohesive design, but are stylistically individual to each land. Not many fans are familiar with the Tokyo DisneySea posters, so we hope everyone will appreciate this unique chapter in the book.”
Vanessa said her favorite poster comes from the Disneyland Resort.
“I love all of them, but the one that catches my eye every time I open the drawer is the Grand Canyon Diorama poster from Disneyland,” explained Vanessa. “The colors are absolutely beautiful and the train design is fantastic!”
Which is your favorite attraction poster? I vote Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room!
7 Replies
31 Comments
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Merchandise Comes to Life
posted on May 14th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
With the opening of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort only a few weeks away, I sat down with Disney Design Group Artist Bob Holden to review some of the new merchandise we’ve developed. You may recall that Bob and I have previously discussed his work with merchandise for Disney Vacation Club Resorts and Disney’s Aulani, a Resort and Spa in Ko ‘Olina, Hawai’i. Bob told me that Walt Disney Imagineering was a key partner for the creation of this merchandise.
“The Walt Disney Imagineering team was an outstanding partner,” exclaimed Bob. “They provided the art files that we used for the merchandise. The designs that you see on the shirts and other items were lifted directly from artwork that guests will see at the new resort.”
You can see the main art we used on merchandise on the outside of Animation Hall, the check-in building at the Resort. Bob also used the colorful diamond pattern found at the resort as a background for on several items. The shirt images were also taken directly from the resort (look for the Ariel image and others inside Animation Hall).
There will be two pins created for the opening. The open edition pin uses an image of Crush from the Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” wing. The limited edition pin has an edition size of 500 and will be released at the Ink and Paint Shop in the resort on May 31.
As for my favorite items, I liked the paint brush pen and the tumbler with a straw. Since I’m a fan of roadside architecture, I thought the wall decals of the Radiator Springs’ signs was a fun addition.
As for future items, Bob said they are still developing retail versions of lamps and shower curtains that are similar to items that will be found in guests’ rooms. Those retail items will be arriving at a future date.
Bob said he was most impressed with the colorful details found throughout the resort.
“I really found myself being immersed in a colorful and fun environment,” explained Bob after he visited the location. “The details made me feel like I was being transported to each character’s world, which is what we do best at Disney.”
For more updates on Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, see the posts below:
Build Your Droid at the Droid Factory Coming to Tatooine Traders at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
posted on May 10th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
Ever since I was a little boy, I’ve dreamed of owning my own droid just like Luke Skywalker in Star Wars. Granted, I also wanted to learn the ways of the Force, but I think having an Astromech droid will be slightly easier with the Droid Factory experience launching during Star Wars Weekends 2012. Fans will be able to build and name their own R-series Astromech droid action figures. I spoke with product developer Cody Hampton who said this experience was in development for three years!
“We began discussing the Droid Factory in 2009,” explained Cody. “We know that personalization is an important aspect of the popular build-your-own light saber experience. We felt the same thing could be done with action figures but on a much larger scale.”
Large scale indeed – the Droid Factory has 71 different pieces to create the 3 ¾-inch figures! To get started, guests chose a dome, a body and legs offered in a variety of colors and styles (Cody said that availability of various parts and colors may change). There are optional third legs and novelty hats that can be added.
“We wanted lots of options for [the Droid Factory],” continued Cody. “There are literally thousands of combinations making each droid unique. Guests can also name their droids with sticker sheets provided at checkout.”
Three domes – R6, R8 and R9 – were created exclusively for this experience at Disney Parks. Cody also told me the multi-colored ear hats were inspired by Jedi Mickey’s Astromech droid, R2-MK. Four additional hats arrive later this summer including a Goofy hat, a pirate hat, a fedora and a Yoda cap.
Droids will be sold either in single or dual packs (the latter has a value price). They can also be used with the playsets we’ve created like the Starspeeder 1000.
Cody and fellow developer Brad Schoeneberg built Astromech droids for this article.
“My favorite droid is named R7-C4,” Cody continued. “He has an orange body like my favorite clone trooper, Commander Cody. He wears the Yoda cap as a nod to the actual hat created in the 1980s when I fell in love with Star Wars.”
Brad built R9-EIU in honor of Eastern Illinois University, where he completed his bachelor’s degree. He explained, “[The droid] would have been great to have around while I was in school.”
I can’t wait to create one for my office. Happy building!
For more updates on Star Wars Weekends 2012, see the posts below:
- Cast Yourself in Carbonite with the Carbon-Freeze Me Experience During Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Shopping in ‘Darth’s Mall’ for Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort
- More Visiting Celebrities, Details & Tips Announced for Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort
Creating ‘Laila, the Essence of Norway’ from World Showcase at Epcot
posted on May 9th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
In 2003, I served as an attraction manager for the Norway Pavilion in World Showcase at Epcot (I wasn’t the first to pass that way, nor was I the last). I learned much from the International cast members working in the pavilion; they made me want to visit the country. As a photographer, I’m sure I would be amazed at the beauty of Norway. I often visit the pavilion as my son loves the Maelstrom attraction, while I enjoy the school bread from the bakery. There is one scent from the pavilion that reminds me of when I worked at Epcot – the perfume “Laila, the Essence of Norway.” I had a chance meeting with Geir Ness, the creator of “Laila,” one afternoon at Disney Theme Park Merchandise. He told me why he created the perfume which I thought was a perfect story for Mother’s Day.
“When I was a little boy, my mom always took me with her to the Norwegian fjords and mountains,” explained Geir. “I wanted something very special that reminded me of my childhood, loving mother and the fresh clean scent of nature in Norway.”
Disney Theme Park Merchandise introduced the perfume to the Norway Pavilion around 1998. But as Geir explained, the first bottle of “Laila” was actually created for his mother.
“Laila is my mother’s name,” continued Geir. “Without her knowledge, I silk-screened her signature on a bottle and gave it to her on Mother’s Day as a surprise gift. I dedicate [Laila] to all the very special mothers around the world.”
If you would like to meet Geir, he will be making an in-store appearance in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot from May 7-10.
Cast Yourself in Carbonite with the Carbon-Freeze Me Experience During Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
posted on May 8th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
As a child, one of the most memorable scenes that I vividly remember from Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back is when Captain Han Solo is frozen in carbonite on Darth Vader’s orders. I think I remember it because after seeing the movie, my parents bought me Boba Fett’s ship that contained a miniature version of Han Solo in carbonite. Coming this year to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I will have the opportunity to relive that scene with the Carbon-Freeze Me experience. This new experience was created especially for Disney Parks, and is part of our “D-Tech Me” line that uses technology to take personalization to a whole new level (advance reservations are required. Please see below for details).
Using state-of-the-art imaging technology, this experience casts your likeness as a three-dimensional, eight-inch figurine. At the Carbon-Freezing Chamber (located adjacent to The American Idol Experience), several cameras will capture multiple angles of your face. The images are then reconstructed in a computer for processing, and in approximately four weeks, the completed figurine is shipped directly to your house. I had my image captured during early tests for this experience, and it was surreal to see a digital version of my head.
Each carbonite figurine is $99.95 (plus shipping). You can order additional figurines using the same image scan for $74.95 each. The replica figurine can be hung on a wall, just like the gangster Jabba the Hutt did in Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi (I plan on doing the same thing when I receive mine). Guests also receive a light-up wristband.
The experience will officially open on May 18 with the launch of Star Wars Weekends.
Reservations are required and can be made starting Monday, May 7 by calling 407-WDW-TECH (407-939-8324).
May the Force be with you!
Please note: Separate Theme Park admission required for Disney’s Hollywood Studios. No discounts apply unless otherwise noted. Guests must be at least three (3) years of age to participate. A valid accepted credit card number is required at time of booking. No-shows or in the event a reservation is cancelled within 48 hours of scheduled experience will result in such credit card being charged a $25 cancellation fee. The experience, due to its personalized nature is non-refundable and not eligible for an exchange. Children must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age or older during the entire experience. Certain restrictions may apply. All prices, components and information are subject to change without notice.
New Duffy the Disney Bear Items Celebrate Moms and More at Walt Disney World Resort
posted on May 4th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
I recently showcased a variety of new Duffy the Disney Bear items with media visiting the Walt Disney World Resort. I thought you would like to see a sampling of these new items including one that was created especially for moms.
For the first time, we will offer a pre-dressed 17-inch Duffy the Disney Bear wearing a tee-shirt filled with love for Mother’s Day (to my mom who is reading this article – I love you!). Starting Sunday, May 6, bears with shirts will be found at the following Walt Disney World Resort locations – Disney Trader’s at Epcot, Emporium at Magic Kingdom and World of Disney at Downtown Disney Marketplace. This concept is something new we are testing, so there are limited quantities of the pre-dressed bears available. Retail for this item will be $30.00 (plus tax).
We have carried, however, a variety of 12-inch, pre-dressed bears for years. There was a bear recently released at Disneyland Resort Paris in early April to commemorate their 20th Anniversary. For the graduate in your family, we are releasing a new 2012 graduation bear complete with cap and gown. And coming this summer to Disneyland Resort, there will be a new 12-inch bear for Disney California Adventure park.
Besides the plush bears, we will be releasing several new pins in the coming months. One pin has Duffy driving an Autopia car from the “Gear Up For Adventure” collection at Disneyland Resort (my fellow author Michelle Harker first told you about these collection in February. Both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will see two different collections of new Hidden Mickey pins coming this summer that have Duffy sporting a variety of hats. In November, the Walt Disney World Resort limited edition Pin Trading Nights pin will also feature Duffy.
Finally, I’m excited to announce that coming in July we will release the two unique Vinylmation figures of Duffy. Both open edition figures were designed by Monty Maldovan who has designed a variety of costumes for Duffy in recent years. There will be two figures – one in a sailor suit and the other with flocking – that will be presented in decorative open window boxes.
Shopping in ‘Darth’s Mall’ for Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort
posted on April 27th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
A little while ago, I gave you a peek at some Star Wars Weekends merchandise. Today, I have selected a few of my favorite items coming soon to “Darth’s Mall,” a massive shopping location we’re creating just for Star Wars Weekends.
The striking image of Donald Duck as Darth Maul is a common thread throughout the entire assortment. The artwork above will be used on the two main logo shirts. We will also have shirts with images of Darth Maul from Episode I, including a stunning Passholder exclusive shirt in both men’s and women’s styles. I spent hours around the office, however, wearing one of the best shirts this year — a tee shirt with an image of Darth Vader’s chest, complete with a flowing, detachable cape.
Similar to previous years, there will be open and limited-edition pins, boxed pin sets and a framed pin set. I enjoy the humor found in the “Piece of Death Star” pin (there is not an actual piece, but one can dream). I also like the Chewbacca-inspired, bandolier neck lanyard.
In the Vinylmation galaxy, Maria Clapsis designed six new open edition figures that feature Disney characters portraying Star Wars characters. If you are looking for the second limited release mystery series, you will have to wait until August (trust me, it will be worth it!).
There is a beach towel that looks like the legs of a Jedi Knight (awesome!). There will also be an iPhone 4/4S case, with the fitting edition size of 1,999.
One of the more unique items is an oversized bag that contains a special side pocket to carry either a poster tube (or perhaps a lightsaber!). I also thought the six different phrase buttons were a nice addition this year. Yet I can’t wait to get my Star Tours nametag with my name written in Aurebesh, one of the alphabets used in the Star Wars galaxy.
Finally, we will have three unique action figures including Donald Duck playing Darth Maul and Savage Opress, Darth Maul’s powerful brother from the planet of Dathomir. Savage Opress, who was once also Count Dooku’s secret Sith apprentice, is featured in the animated TV series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Also, look for the limited release figure of Rizzo from The Muppets, portraying Jedi Master Yoda.
 |
 |
 |
For more Star Wars Weekends updates, see the posts below:
New Virtual Vinylmation Store Launched on Facebook
posted on April 20th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
One of the neat aspects of my role is working with our Disney Parks Digital Marketing team to provide content for a variety of Facebook fan pages. I’ve been directly responsible for the content on two specific pages – Duffy The Disney Bear and Vinylmation. I particularly love seeing the comments from fans about the photos we’ve shared (thanks for the smiles and laughs). Vinylmation fans now have another way to connect with others with the launch of the Vinylmation Store on Facebook. I spoke with Erin Catalano, my teammate and fellow Disney Parks Blog author, who served as the project manager for this store. Erin said the store is a unique addition to the digital world.
“We began conceptualizing the store in fall 2011,” explained Erin. “We wanted a way for Vinylmation fans to interact with other fans, get special offers and share feedback by voting on questions. The store will also offer exclusive figures that won’t be found anywhere else.”
The first exclusive figure, the blue figure wearing a Mickey Mouse ringer tee-shirt, compliments two previously released figures that are part of the Park Favorites series. The yellow figure was released at locations in Disneyland and Walt Disney World, while the red figure was a Disney Parks Online Store exclusive.
Erin shared that the Facebook store will also be a place for first purchase opportunities. This means you may find figures on the Facebook store before their release at locations in Disney Parks. One such set will be released on May 4 and features figures inspired by the upcoming Disney-Pixar film “Brave.”
One thing I like about the store is the opportunity to collect virtual badges. Erin explained that interaction is the key to collecting badges.
“We are offering a series of virtual badges,” said Erin. “These badges have images of various Vinylmation figures which fans can get by voting, liking or sharing. These virtual Vinylmation can be displayed on a profile. It’s our way of saying ‘thanks’ for being a fan.”
I invite you to visit the Vinylmation Facebook page today.
Happy Little Orange Bird Lands on New Merchandise at Walt Disney World Resort
posted on April 17th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
I recall the day Disney artist Casey Jones asked if he could show me something cool. Knowing Casey’s involvement with other cool things (I’m looking at you, Dole Whip shirt), I immediately made time for him. When Casey arrived with concept art for new Orange Bird merchandise, I almost burst into song! He said these new items were being developed because the Orange Bird was returning to the Sunshine Tree Terrace at Magic Kingdom Park. We discussed how “The Florida Project” event last September served as inspiration for new merchandise.
“The Orange Bird played a key part of ‘The Florida Project,’ since the event was a salute to the 40th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort,” explained Casey. “We created Orange Bird pins and Vinylmation, and featured him in the event décor. At that time, we were unaware that Walt Disney Imagineering had plans of bringing the Orange Bird back to Walt Disney World Resort the following spring! We eventually worked with Imagineering to brainstorm new merchandise to commemorate his return!”
Casey explained that partnerships with Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Grandt and Steven Vagnini from the Walt Disney Archives were instrumental in creating these new items.
“Jason and Steven were outstanding partners,” continued Casey. “Jason actually provided the artwork for the two tee-shirts and a deluxe print, and Steven provided a tremendous amount of reference material about the Orange Bird when we visited him in California.”
The deluxe print Casey mentions is one of my favorite items. Jason combined the original concept artwork for the Sunshine Pavilion that was created by Richard Hebner in 1969 with original Orange Bird art he created for Walt Disney World Resort’s newest attraction poster!
Casey also developed his very first ear hat, which is arriving this summer. It reminds me of the Figment ear hat we released last fall.
Jason shared his thoughts around the new Orange Bird merchandise.
“We wanted to add an extra layer of magic for guests visiting the Sunshine Tree Terrace,” said Jason. “With the new merchandise, guests can now see the Orange Bird and take home a little memory of their visit.”
With all this talk of the Orange Bird, I’m craving a citrus swirl! Who wants to join me?
Read these posts for more Walt Disney World Resort merchandise news:
Feet Will Flip Over New Shoes at Disney Parks
posted on April 3rd, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
I believe it is a requirement to own a pair of flip flops if either living in or visiting the states of Florida or California (I currently have four pairs in my closet). When I see a pair, I think of warm, endless, sun-filled days while enjoying the great outdoors. The softlines team at Disney Theme Park Merchandise recently introduced an entire new collection of flip flops for Disney Parks. I spoke with Associate Developer Tina David about the creation of these colorful new shoes.
“This may be the first time we’ve ever introduced this many flip flops at one time,” explained Tina. “From a historical perspective, we knew flip flops are popular at Disney Parks. We also saw that [flip flops] were a hot trend in the marketplace. We used these two factors when deciding to introduce this new line.”
Tina worked with Disney Design Group artist Susan Foy who “had the freedom to create what she wanted.” One thing that stands out to me is Susan’s deliberate use of bright colors, which she confirmed was a conscious choice.
“We wanted to infuse as much color as possible to the flip flops,” continued Susan. “I used a combination of original designs and ones inspired by other items such as bags or apparel. Of the designs I created, I like the navy blue pair with interlocking Mickey Mouse outlines the best. Overall, I wanted the new collection to be bright, fun and something our guests would enjoy wearing during vacation.”
You will find a “Flip Flop” logo designed by Susan as an attachment on each pair of shoes. Susan has already purchased the black and white and bright pink Mickey Mouse styles for her feet. Personally, I love the designs that feature the retro-inspired logos for Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.
Then again, I would probably wear any of them as long as my next destination is the beach.
