Festival of Our Disney Masters at Downtown Disney
posted on November 11th, 2011 by Erin Catalano, Merchandise Communication Specialist, Walt Disney World Resort
For the past 36 years, Festival of the Masters has been a time to showcase talented artists from across the U.S.A. all in one magical place. This year, in addition to the award winning artists that will be featured throughout Downtown Disney during the event, we’re also hosting Festival of the Masters largest gathering ever of brilliant Disney Artists from Disney Parks and beyond.
I spoke with Misty Carroll, Merchandise Event Specialist, who worked tirelessly to bring together this year’s collection of Disney Artists at Festival of the Masters. “Every year, we challenge ourselves to see how we can make each Festival of the Masters bigger and better than the year before.” said Misty. “This year we came up with the idea to host the largest collection of Disney Artists to ever appear at Festival of the Masters.” explained Misty. “Of course our artists are so enthusiastic about meeting Disney Fans that every artist that we invited to participate jumped at the opportunity. We’re excited to give our guests the experience to meet so many Disney artists in one place while enjoying the festivities and fun that Festival of the Masters has to offer,” said Misty.
Between Yellow Shoes Creative Group, Disney Design Group and multiple renowned Disney artists such as Noah and Katie Kelly, there will be more than 15 artists appearing throughout the entire weekend. In addition to the appearances by this gifted group, many of the artists have created artwork that will make its debut during Festival of the Masters giving guests a look at brand new artwork that has never been seen before in Disney Galleries.
Earlier this week, Disney Parks Blog reader Daniel asked if there was going to be a published list of the Disney Artists participating in the event. Yes, Daniel, there certainly is and I’ll do one better and provide a list of the times and locations that each artist will be signing! With so many artists and so many appearance times, I’ve put together a schedule of all of our Disney Artist’s appearances to help you navigate through Festival of the Masters.
With so many Disney Artists appearing at this year’s Festival of the Masters, I’m trying to decide who to get in line for first… Noah? Don “Ducky” Williams? Darren Wilson? Which of the Disney Artists are you most excited to see at Festival of the Masters?
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Dazzling Holiday Dolls at Disneyland Park
posted on November 10th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
First, I have to start off by welcoming fellow my Disney Parks blogger, good friend and fellow counterpart for Disney Theme Park Merchandise, Erin Catalano. I hope all of you great Disney Parks Blog fans gave her a warm welcome! Both Erin and I have had the fortunate opportunity over the course of the years to promote fabulous collections of Precious Moments dolls from renowned Doll Maker Linda Rick and this month is no exception.
Just last month, Linda was spotted at the Walt Disney World Resort where she debuted her collection of dolls inspired by the Disney•Pixar film, “Toy Story.” What else is she prepared to dazzle us with? That was the question of the day, and so I asked her and here’s what she had to say.
“I’m absolutely enchanted with the 2011 Holiday Collection. I’ve been so excited to see the reaction from the Disney fans. This year’s collection features many of Disney’s beloved Princesses adorned in rich colors of green velvet and ivory satin, kissed with intricate red accents of holly and poinsettias, that I hope will make many of their holiday moments truly precious.”
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Here’s a quick peek at a couple of the dolls you will see debut as part of this year’s Holiday Collection in just a few short weeks. Linda is currently scheduled to appear at the Disneyana Shop in Disneyland park, November 18–20, and then will be returning to the Walt Disney World Resort where she will be appearing at Heritage Manor in Epcot November 25–27, December 2–4, December 9–11, and December 12-18. Be sure to visit ArtofDisneyParks.com for details on appearance times, locations and of course, to see some of the other dolls available in the Disney Precious Moments Dolls Collection!
I know where I’ll be this holiday season – are you planning on celebrating the holidays with Disney Parks this season too?
Behind the Scenes: ‘Mickey’s Ice Cream Dream’ at The Festival of the Masters at Downtown Disney
posted on November 8th, 2011 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks
I love hearing about the creative process, especially with projects that make people smile. Will Gay, creative director at Disney’s Yellow Shoes Creative Group, has created a one-of-a-kind hand painted Vinylmation called, “Mickey’s Ice Cream Dream” for this year’s Festival of the Masters at Downtown Disney. And he created it specifically to surprise and delight as you’ll see in this sneak peek for Disney Parks Blog readers.
Will’s inspiration for the Vinylmation piece is a large painting he’s working on for this year’s Festival of the Masters show called, “Mickey in the Land of Sweets.” I’ll be out there this weekend checking it out along with the other art and I hope you will too.
The Festival of the Masters show at Downtown Disney kicks off Nov. 11 and runs through the weekend. You can meet more than 150 award-winning artists showcasing their paintings, jewelry, sculptures, photos and creations of clay, wood and metals.
See the posts below for a look back at last year’s Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort:
- Festival of the Masters Mickey Mouse Soap Sculpture
- Festival of the Masters for the Artist in You
- Disney’s Epic Mickey at Festival of the Masters
Muppets Mayhem on D Street at the Downtown Disney District
posted on October 26th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
This fall make sure you take time to get warm and Fozzie! Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. As you may know, November 23 marks the return of the ever-lovable and oh, so popular Muppets. Kermit, Miss Piggy and the gang return to theaters in their newest feature film, Disney “The Muppets.” I don’t know about you, but I’m counting down the days.
In celebration of the release of this highly anticipated film, Noah along with two of his favorite collaborative artists, Dez Einswell and Jon Chase, will bring these amazing characters to life on an array of clothing, original and limited edition artwork, skate decks and Vinylmation.
The Muppets have impacted each one of us, in different ways. Growing up, I think we can all remember watching the show, laughing at the characters, their jokes, mannerisms and even the music. I was chatting with Noah just the other day about this new collection and I think he summed it up best. “Being given the unique opportunity to bring such nostalgic, everlasting characters to life, for others to enjoy, was Muppet Mayhem at its best. All three of us have incredible creative outlets in art, apparel and toys. At the heart of each is art and storytelling, which is also the core of Noah Fine Art Collective. This collection embraces that philosophy and allowed each of us to celebrate our favorite characters, and showcase them in non-traditional formats, all while staying true to the personalities of each character and each artist.”
This program will make its debut at D Street in the Downtown Disney District in Anaheim, to a limited number of invited guests on November 17. We welcome everyone to come out for the public launch on Friday, Nov. 18, when artists Noah, Dez and Jon will be on hand for demonstrations and signings. Be sure to check ArtofDisneyParks.com for details and appearance times.
Wondering what other Muppets merchandise you should add to your “must have” list … I can definitely recommend the new film soundtrack, officially called “The Muppets.” With well-known favorites and all-new songs recorded by The Muppets and cast, it’s destined to be a classic! Look for it at select Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort merchandise locations starting November 21.
Are you excited to see the film and this trendy new take on Muppets merchandise?
See the posts below for more from the Art of Disney:
Celebrating Walt Disney World’s 40th Anniversary
posted on September 28th, 2011 by Dara Trujillo, Manager, Merchandise Synergy, Events, and Communication
I hope you have already marked your calendars to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort on Oct. 1. To help you navigate around all of the happenings on Oct. 1, here’s a quick snapshot of the Disney inspired artists and special signing opportunities taking place throughout the day at Magic Kingdom Park.
Start your morning off with a little ‘kook’iness at Diamond Horseshoe from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. as we welcome Kooky Pen Creator, Brent Reese and Disney Design Group Artist, Costa Alavezos signing the newest Kooky limited edition pen set created especially for the anniversary. Next, double your fun, with not one, but two opportunities to meet California artist, Noah, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., as we celebrate the release of his limited edition 40th Anniversary hand-painted Vinylmation figures and commemorative artwork featuring Cinderella Castle and Tinker Bell as she flies through the night sky.
From today’s styles to nostalgic pieces reminiscent of yesteryear, comes the 40th Anniversary collection from artists Kevin Kidney and Jody Daily, along with Dave Avanzino, who will join in the Oct. 1 festivities at Diamond Horseshoe with signings from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Allow Kevin and Jody to take you on a trip down memory lane with their Grand Canyon Concourse inspired vase, vintage tin attraction sign set and a ceramic drinking cup reminiscent of those from opening day. What’s Dave Avanzino have in store? How about meticulously handcrafted limited- edition 3-D sculptures featuring the Haunted Mansion and a second piece celebrating attractions from the Magic Kingdom Park. Special note: The Haunted Mansion-inspired artwork features UV paint that will reveal hidden details when placed under black light.
While we’re on the topic of hauntingly good merchandise, if it’s something a little more chilling and ghoulishly thrilling that you seek, then ‘hurry back’ to Uptown Jewelers throughout the day, where an array of Disney artists, including Disney Traditions artisan Jim Shore and Miniaturist Robert Olszewski will be materializing. Jim Shore will ‘appear’ from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. to sign his newest spellbinding creation, the Haunted Mansion Ballroom Organist. In another realm, from 12 Noon to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Miniaturist, Robert Olszewski will be ‘dying to meet you’ with the release of his iconic Haunted Mansion attraction sculpture and other pieces in the Main Street, U.S.A. collection.
Before you lose all track of time… meet Watch Artist Gene Gonda from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., who’s limited release watch depicting Mickey Mouse with Orange Bird in hand in front of Cinderella Castle will premier at Uptown Jewelers.
If you’re not able to join us at Magic Kingdom on October 1 to celebrate the momentous 40th Anniversary celebration, not to worry, we’re offering a special treat online! This weekend only (September 30 – October 2) we’re making the limited release commemorative 40th Anniversary T-Shirts available online at DisneyParks.com/Store. These special t-shirts are only available for a short time, once the clock strikes midnight on Sunday, October 2, the 40th Anniversary commemorative t-shirts will be history!
You’ll Be ‘Drawn’ To Our Artist Sketch Program at the Disneyland Resort
posted on September 8th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
Uncover one of Disney’s most hidden treasures, the Artist Sketch Program. For years, the Disneyland Resort has been home to Disney artists who capture magical moments from beloved Disney films. A step above the rest, each month a new character is brought to life by these artists, right before your very eyes.
This month at Off the Page in Disney California Adventure park, our artists have embraced the circle of life with a framed sketch that captures the moment when Simba takes his place on Pride Rock. Looking for Mickey as a Jedi or as Steamboat Willie? Then be sure to visit The Disney Gallery on Main Street, U.S.A., and other select locations, where you will find matted sketches of some of your favorite Disney characters.
Disney enthusiasts on the east coast, don’t despair – you’ll find artists on hand at the Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney area at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Stop by and watch them work. I assure you, you’ll be amazed.
For more Art of Disney Parks events, see the following posts:
September is Chock Full of Events at Disneyland Resort!
posted on September 1st, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
For those of you wondering if there are any fun signings or events taking place during the month of September, get ready to mark your calendars. Here is the official word from the Disneyland Merchandise Special Events team.
You may think you’re going Bonkers, but actually you’re right on target. The Disney Afternoon’s Bonkers D. Bobcat Vinylmation is set to make its debut September 2 at D Street with the help of Artist and Global Creativity and Innovation Director Chris Chapman. So don’t go nutty, go “bonkers!”
Taking place in Downtown Disney District on September 10 is the Harveys debut of the “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” seatbeltbag collection. Buckle up!
Up next is artisan Jim Shore. I know many of you are Disney Traditions and Jim Shore collectors – I know our family is. My mom has several Eeyore sculptures by Jim Shore, while my grandma favors anything with Pinocchio. Me? Well let’s just say mine is much more holiday focused and features a very well known reindeer. Jim will be on hand for a special appearance at the Disneyland Resort the weekend of September 17–18. For locations and times be sure to check out ArtofDisneyParks.com.
That same weekend, don’t forget Disney artists Brian Sandahl and Tim Wollweber will be haunting the Disneyana Shop with their array of Halloween and “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” collectible merchandise. Joining them will be renowned doll artisan Linda Rick, who will be on hand to debut her new collection of Halloween-themed Disney and Precious Moments dolls.
You never know what else is “in store” so keep watching the Disney Parks Blog and www.ArtofDisneyParks.com so you don’t miss out.
More Room For Haunted Mansion Event at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
posted on September 1st, 2011 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager
The first time I experienced The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom Park, I didn’t see it. Before visiting Florida as a child, I had never been to a haunted house. Clearly, the delightfully unlivable mansion was too much for me back then since I only listened to that first ride. Today, the attraction is one of my favorites. My son and I recently visited there where we played in the extended graveyard queue and had a ball with the 999 happy haunts. This Fall marks the 40th anniversary of the attraction, and to celebrate, we are holding a merchandise event called “Room for 1 More” (we announced it via the Disney Parks Blog back in July). I caught up with Tyler Dumas, Disney Design Group Graphic Artist, to learn more about his work for that hauntingly awesome event logo.
“I’m a huge fan of The Haunted Mansion,” exclaimed Tyler. “For the logo, we focused on the graveyard caretaker since he would be the one eventually caring for that ‘one more’ volunteer. My fellow artist Brian Blackmore created the character sketch of him and his dog. I envisioned a grungy feel to the artwork, so I chose three or four dark colors and used a classic gothic font. I think the tee-shirts capture that grungy feel the best.”
You may recall Tyler’s work from another 40th Anniversary-related item earlier this past year – the Cinderella Castle collage. The “Room For 1 More” logo art is featured on a variety of items including a hat, messenger bag, tumbler and a timepiece.
The logo merchandise is only a small sampling of unique merchandise created for this event. We have several well known artists who will be debuting items at this event including George Scribner, Greg McCullough, Elisabete Gomes, Dave Avanzino, Jim Shore, Robert Olszewski and more. I spoke with Disney Design Group artist Costa Alavezos, who you may remember from a recent article discussing those precious Disney Ear Hat holiday ornaments. Costa has created several items for this event but my favorite is titled “Graveyard Band.”
“I created an original work on an 18-inch by 24-inch canvas titled ‘Graveyard Band,’” explained Costa. “It took me about three- to four weeks to complete it as I would work on it a little each night at home. The graveyard is the scene I remember the best from the attraction, particularly the band that greets you at its entrance. There are so many amazing things to see in that part that I wish the ride would slow down [laughs].”
There will also be some unique collectible one-of-a-kind Vinylmation figures designed by Noah, Miss Mindy (who recently had two incredible figures at the D23 Expo), Monty Maldovan and Quynh Kimball. I also love the collectible (and reversible) Disney Ear Hat that comes with both a pin and Vinylmation 3-inch figure.
Speaking of pins, there will be a unique feature to several of them that uses a black light (something that was a hit for the pins celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland in 2009). There is a lanyard medal featuring a gargoyle from the stretching room that contains a black light attachment. When shined on certain pins and packaging, the light will reveal hidden things (Tyler mentioned to look for three ghosts who like to follow people home).
The best news I have to share is that, like the name of the event implies, we still have “room for one more” guest. If you’d like ticket information or to see more of the unique items created, please visit ArtofDisneyParks.com. Any volunteers?
A Holiday Trick or a Halloween Treat at Disneyland Park?
posted on August 17th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
Do you or any of your neighbors decorate your houses for Halloween? Or do you know someone who does? I’m talking something so spook-tacular that you become the talk of the neighborhood. One of my close friends transforms the entire front of his house into a ghoulish delight almost every year, featuring everything from a headless horseman coach to a haunted graveyard with life-like – or I guess you could say “dead”ly – headstones and even a pumpkin patch.
So now that I’ve got you thinking about what you can do to decorate your homes this year … ask yourself, how can you add a little Disney magic to your own holiday décor, making you the talk of the town? Need a little help? This year, the ever-popular character pumpkin heads that sit atop the main entrance to Disneyland park have inspired a new line of Halloween-themed collectibles, set to debut September 17. Entertainment artists and designers Brian Sandahl and Tim Wollweber have a knack for creating the incredible and this year is no different. Brian and Tim have gone back to the drawing board, creating pumpkin heads in the shape of Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Pluto, and a sled-full of nightmarish holiday treats reminiscent of displays that come alive daily in the Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction.
There’s a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for something festive and fun or nightmarishly frightful, we have skull wreaths, pumpkin candelabras and even a sculpture that is sure to be the perfect “gift” and addition to your collection.
Take an in-depth look at these new releases and the back-story about how these artists make the magic come alive on ArtofDisneyParks.com. And if you are in the mood to start decorating early, stop by the Disneyana Shop on September 17 from 9–11 a.m. and meet these “spirited” individuals who are sure to “haunt” your holiday season.
See more of how the Disneyland Resort celebrates Halloween in the posts below:
- Behind-the-Scenes Video: How to Decorate Pumpkins Like the Disneyland Resort Enhancement Team
- Halloween Decor Dazzles at Disneyland Resort!
- Photos: Mickey’s Halloween Party
D23 Expo Artist Signings and Merchandise Debuts
posted on August 9th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort
Alright Disney fans, with only 10 days left, the D23 Expo countdown is officially on. I hope you have your tickets. I do. I’m so excited to see some of the presentations that are scheduled and from what I’m hearing, there’s a lot of buzz about the Disney Parks and Resorts “Carousel of Projects” pavilion, so I am calling that out on my list as a “don’t miss.” And of course, I will be working the D23 Auction so I expect to see all of you there.
Since this is my last D23 post before the Expo begins, I thought I would give you a couple of last minute reminders, including a sneak peek at the Pinocchio’s Daring Journey attraction sculpture set to release during the Expo from expert miniaturist and sculptor, Robert Olszewski. This is just one of the “must have” debut items bound to be on everyone’s shopping list.
This newest piece from Olszewski takes collectors one step closer to completing the Fantasyland area. My grandma’s favorite Disney film of all time is “Pinocchio,” so I guess you could say I have a soft spot in my heart for the characters and the attraction, which makes this piece an instant hit for me. Reminder for D23 Members attending the Expo – be sure to ask about the D23 Member exclusive Pokitpal.
Now I know that many of you are also familiar with Disney artist Dave Avanzino. Known for his impressive and intricately detailed paper sculpture art, Dave will be making appearances in the Dream Store during the D23 Expo, where he will debuting a new program in which you can select some of your favorite Disneyland Resort attractions and icons to spell your name.
What else? How about a handful of new releases from ACME Animation Archives or the latest DVD and book releases that are sure to set your imagination spinning. Renowned authors Ridley Pearson and Dave Barry will be making an appearance, along with author and filmmaker Don Hahn. Also on hand for signings and meet-and-greet opportunities will be Ted Thomas and Kuniko Okubo, Gregg Sherman and Jeff Sherman as well as Alex Maher, Robert Olszewski, Larry Nikolai, Noah, Linda Rick, Eric Scales and Thomas Scott. Want a list of signings to help you plan your day? Check out ArtofDisneyParks.com or stop by the Autograph Area at the D23 Expo for up-to-date information on who will be appearing and when.
There’s so much more for you to see, so be sure to stop by the Dream Store, which will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. Tell them I sent you!
Take a look back at more of the merchandise you can expect to see at this year’s D23 Expo:
