Being a fan of different art styles, mediums and content definitely has its charms. Why? Because if you’re a fan like I am, then you’ll also find yourself a fan of our artist showcases this April, where you can actually chat with the artist and add some of their newest creations to your collection.

This month’s events and artist showcases are just the beginning. Take a look at some of the new art and collections coming your way.

 
On April 12–13, Bob Elias will be appearing at The Disney Gallery on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland park from 1–4 p.m. each day.

On April 20, Noah will return to Disneyland park for an appearance at The Disney Gallery from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. While I can’t show you the entire piece created by Noah, here’s a little teaser of what you can expect:

Then, on April 27, representatives from Commune, Ezekiel and Neff will make D Street in the Downtown Disney District the place to be, as they show off some of the newest apparel and accessory items from their collections.

Rounding out the month is local artist and graphic designer Jeff Granito, who is this month’s artist in residence at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District. Look for him each Friday and Saturday, beginning April 12, from 5–9 p.m.

Finally, if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, then you’ve found it. Eecycled creator Ericka Eickman has brought to life hip, unique recreations and one-of-a-kind hats, scarves, home accessories and decorative gifts, from her passion for recycling and preserving previously loved and gently worn clothing and notions. Look for Erika each weekend throughout the month of April from 1-4 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District.

I know where I’ll be this April. Will you be joining us?

Tagged: Art of Disney, DLR

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Resort

One reason I enjoy Disney Parks is that there is always something to do. I enjoy annual events like the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival or the upcoming Star Wars Weekends. There are also many smaller events held each month that offer chance encounters with some cool people. One such opportunity will take place this weekend when pop artist Romero Britto visits Walt Disney World Resort.

Brazilian-born Britto has been creating colorful masterpieces for years. He uses bold patterns and vibrant colors that he says are a “visual language of hope and happiness.” Romero has lived in Miami, Florida, since the late 1980s. I recall hearing about his art in 2007, when he created a giant pyramid in Hyde Park to celebrate the return of Tutankhamen to London, England (in another life, I would be an Egyptologist).

In recent years, Romero created several whimsical Disney figurines of some well known characters like Mickey Mouse, Jiminy Cricket and Kermit the Frog. These figurines have been carried in the Art of Disney gallery locations at Disney Parks. I also found some of his non-Disney works at Pop Gallery located at Downtown Disney West Side.

We are releasing three newer items this weekend that my fellow author Michelle Harker first told you about in early March. They include figurines of Sorcerer Mickey and Mickey Mouse with stylized heart. We are also releasing a figurine plaque that shows Mickey and Minnie Mouse in a loving embrace.

I invite you to stop by this weekend to meet Britto. On March 22, he will be at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom Park from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. He will be at the Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace on March 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please note that we will be distributing wristbands to guests who purchase Britto merchandise on the day of the signing and would like to have two items signed.

Tagged: Art of Disney, WDW

Filed: Art of Disney, Walt Disney World Resort

For those of you traveling to Orlando during the month of March, here’s a list of upcoming events, product releases and artist signings taking place around the “world”!

March 1: Disney Design Group Artist Thomas Scott will be appearing at Disney’s Pin Traders in Downtown Disney Marketplace from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. to sign the latest pin and Vinylmation release in the 2013 series. Note: It’s also the last chance to pick up the 2013 calendar featuring the same design.

March 2: If you’re wondering what your true “colors” might be, then plan to swing by Tren-D in the Downtown Disney Marketplace from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. to find out, as we celebrate the launch of the Beautifully Disney cosmetics collection.

March 6 – 11: Larry Dotson will be on hand to showcase his recent works throughout the week at Art of Disney in Epcot. Unable to make it? Don’t worry… Larry will return later in the month from March 27 – 30 at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom Park.

March 6 – May 19: Spring is in the air! How can I tell? The 20th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, of course! Looking for commemorative merchandise from this year’s festival? Then be sure to make it a point to visit our 2013 Flower & Garden merchandise destinations located in the Festival Center and around the World Showcase promenade! If you’re wondering what other offerings we will have, here’s a quick look at some new and returning artisans that will be taking part in the festivities from 11 a.m.–9 p.m., each day: Just Plumerias, Elemental Nursery, Swaying in the Breeze, Rinse, Silver Designer Corp., Eye Catchers and Heather French. If you’re curious as to what merchandise will be offered this year at Flower & Garden, be sure to watch the Disney Parks Blog as fellow author, Erin Catalano will be sharing that information shortly.

March 8: Follow your heart and the road to D Street in the Downtown Disney Marketplace to find Disney Design Group artist Ron Cohee, who will be on hand from 5 p.m.–7 p.m. to sign the Vinylmation two-pack sets, inspired by “Oz The Great and Powerful.”

March 16: The latest cel from the Ink & Paint team, Waltz in the Park, is making its debut. Meet the artists behind this new masterpiece from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2 p.m.–5 p.m. at the Animation Gallery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

March 21 – April 7: Precious Moments Doll Maker Linda Rick will be appearing at Heritage Manor in the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot from March 21-24 and April 5-7 as she debuts her newest collection of dolls inspired by “Tangled.” Keep in mind, Linda will only be appearing on the dates listed above, but representatives will be on hand to answer any questions between her appearances.

March 22 – 23: Meet artist Romero Britto, who will be on hand to sign some of his recent release including Mickey and Minnie in Love, Mickey Mouse Heart and Sorcerer Mickey. Signing times and locations are as follows: March 22 from 4 p.m.–6 p.m. at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom Park and March 23 from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. at Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace. Note: Wristbands will be issued for this event, so be sure to get there early.

March 22 – 31: The Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace will be home to artist David E. Doss this week, so make sure to stop by, say hello and check out the newest releases in his collection.

March 29: The only thing you’ll be saying for this signing is “how cute!” That’s because Disney Design Group artists Thomas Scott and Caley Hicks will be signing Cutester Series #5 – En Vogue from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. at D Street at Downtown Disney West Side.

That wraps it up! Look for details on all of these events and more on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Until next month.

Tagged: Art of Disney, DHS, Downtown Disney, Epcot, MK, WDW

Filed: Art of Disney, Walt Disney World Resort

Great news, Disney and Tiki fans! The merchandise events team just finished giving me the scoop on the Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event scheduled for June 28-29, 2013. Plus we have a sneak peek of a few of the items that will be offered and some key dates you won’t want to miss. Here’s your official bird’s-eye view of what you can expect … at least everything I am able to reveal right now (hint, hint!).

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event
June 28-29
Disneyland Hotel – Exhibit Hall

JOSE Package – $85
Registered event guests will have the opportunity to purchase Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event-themed merchandise via the Random Selection Process.

June 28, 2013 (5-9 p.m.)

• Early Registration
• Event Store & Random Selection Process Merchandise Pick-up
• Trading Area

June 29, 2013 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

• Event Store & Random Selection Process Merchandise Pick-up
• Artist Signings
• Silent Auction
• Trading Area and Activities
• Commemorative Gifts

“Early Birdies” Special Offer: Don’t miss out! Register early and receive a limited edition “Early Birdies” pin.

Special Experience Add-On:
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary – SHAG Cocktail Reception – $185

Tip: In order to register for the SHAG Cocktail Reception, Guests must also be registered for Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room 50th Anniversary Event ‘JOSE’ Package.

June 29, 2013 (7–10 p.m.)

• Cocktail Reception
• Light Hors d’oeuvres
• Meet and Greet with SHAG
• Commemorative Photo
• Commemorative Gifts

Here’s a sneak peek at the limited edition “Early Birdies” gift pin and other merchandise available for registered event guests to purchase:

Ticket Sales begin Tuesday, April 2, 2013, at 11 a.m. (Pacific Time) via www.ArtofDisneyParks.com. Look for more information in the coming weeks.

Tagged: Art of Disney, DL, DLR, Gallery

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Park, Disneyland Resort

I’m sure that most of you can tell by my posts on the Disney Parks Blog how much I love events and most of all how much I love sharing those details with all of you! That’s why I’m even more excited to announce that I’ll be doing a post or two each month that will give you a snapshot of what’s coming your way in the world of events, product launches, artist signings and more. So start planning your visits now to our many Disney Parks.

Let’s get started. This first look will give you a rundown of everything happening in the world of events during the month of March at the Disneyland Resort. For those of you planning a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, look for details on those events and more early next week.

March 2 – 3: Crowded Teeth artist, Michelle Romo, will appear at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District from 1-4 p.m. each day. Not able to make it on this weekend? Look for her to appear again on March 31.

March 2 – 3: Dave Avanzino is back with his Custom Letter Plaque Program which allows you to create your name out of attractions and icons. Also debuting is his Peter Pan-inspired limited edition piece, “The Last Thing I Do.” Look for him at The Disney Gallery in Disneyland park from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. each day.

March 2 – 3: Artist William Silvers will be on hand from 1-5 p.m. at Off the Page inside Disney California Adventure park for a special ACME Archives Sericel Event featuring some of his newest hand-painted sericels including “Bambi’s New Friend,” “Enchanted Rose” and “Afternoon Matinee.”

March 9 – I can’t tell you about this one yet … Look for an announcement on the Disney Parks Blog on March 1.

March 15: Disney Trading Night! Need I say more? Whether you have been before or this is your first time, stop by and check it out, we’ll be there from 5-8 p.m. in the Pacific Ballroom at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.

March 15 – 17: Now’s your chance to meet artist Katie Kelly who will be appearing at the Disneyana Shop in Disneyland park from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day. Be sure to check out her newest releases including “Once Upon A Dream” and “Let Conscience Be Your Guide.”

March 16 - Take part in a special trunk show at Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure park, where representatives from brands such as Disney Couture, Ezekiel, HARVEYS and TARINA TARANTINO, among others, will be on hand from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. to showcase some of their newest releases.

March 16: Artist Martin Hsu will be available for a signing of his “Maleficent Wish” pieces at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District from 3-5 p.m.

March 23: Jeremiah Ketner is returning to WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District from 3–5 p.m. to sign his newest piece inspired by the animated film, “Tangled,” as well as his previous releases, “Gentle Companions” and “Dreaming of Happiness.”

March 29 – 30: Visit D Street in the Downtown Disney District. It’s the place to be and where you’ll find ACME Archives artist Guy Vasilovich from 1–5 p.m. each day.

March 29 – 31: Linda Rick and the Precious Moments Dolls will returning for a special appearance at China Closet on Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park from Noon – 10 p.m. each day, showcasing some of her most popular releases as well as new additions themed to “Tangled.”

March Artist in Residence: Joey Chou is the featured artist at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District. See Joey each Friday and Saturday from 5-9 p.m.

All of the details will be on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com, so be sure to check it out when you have time. I hope you find this new event snapshot helpful. Pick your favorite events and come on down – we hope to see you there!

Tagged: Art of Disney, DCA, DL, DLR, Downtown Disney

Filed: Art of Disney, Disneyland Resort

What do you want to be when you grow up? That’s the infamous question every kid, of every age, always gets. Growing up, I loved films, loved to draw and I loved Disney, so being an animator seemed like the perfect fit! While my career path didn’t necessarily lead me to feature animation, I have had wonderful opportunities to see and do things I never thought possible, including the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating processes of animation, like Ink & Paint!

What I love even more is that our talented team of Ink & Paint artists at Disney’s Hollywood Studios continue to keep the tradition of Ink & Paint alive, sharing a traditional process with Disney fans, old and new.

The newest limited edition 1,000 piece titled Waltz in the Park is set to release on March 16 at Studios Animation Gallery and features a delicately and precisely hand-painted Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in the iconic costumes of Belle and the Beast as they prepare for their royal entrance into Beast’s Castle.

Waltz in the Park will be available in the following formats, including framing options and retails:

• Unframed Cel – $150
• Black Frame and Cel – $240
• Black Frame with Pin and Cel – $270
• Black Frame with Pin, Postcard and Cel – $280
• Gold Frame and Cel – $310

If you’re wondering what the pin that accompanies a couple of these formats looks like, wonder no more.

For those of you in the area, several of the Ink & Paint artists associated with this piece will actually be on hand for a special appearance and signing March 16 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Studios Animation Gallery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

But if you find yourself unable to join us or you’re out of town, don’t worry, Walt Disney Event Services is currently taking pre-orders for the Waltz in the Park cel. Contact Walt Disney Event Services at 407-827-7600, Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. But keep in mind, all orders must be placed no later than Friday, March 15, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. EST. For more information, visit www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Don’t let this new cel “waltz” away… instead, let it dance its way into your heart and into your home.

Tagged: Art of Disney, DHS, Pins, WDW

Filed: Art of Disney, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort

Earlier this week, we revealed the latest Disney Dream Portrait by Annie Leibovitz for Disney Parks. Today, we go behind the scenes of the photo shoot with Taylor Swift as Rapunzel.

Last June, just a few days after the grand opening celebration for Cars Land, I found myself in Culver City, Calif., on a small soundstage right next door to where they shot “Gone With the Wind.” A large tower had been constructed on one side of the soundstage and a set of the interior of the tower on the other. Annie Leibovitz and her team of artists and technical wizards had created these magical settings for our latest Disney Dream Portrait.

Soon, Taylor Swift arrived and the real magic began as these two artists began experimenting with different poses and props to bring this moment of Disney fantasy to life. In the end, the interior set was not used for the final image, but as with the character who inspired this portrait shoot, exploring the world of possibilities was the theme of the day.

In this video, come behind the scenes, see the creative process unfold, and hear from Taylor herself what it means to be a part of this iconic series.

Take a look back at previous behind-the-scenes stories from the Disney Dream Portrait series:

• Disney Dream Portraits by Annie Leibovitz: Behind the Scenes with Jack Black, Will Ferrell and Jason Segel as the Hitchhiking Ghosts
• Disney Dream Portraits by Annie Leibovitz: Behind the Scenes with Russell Brand as Captain Hook
• Disney Dream Portraits by Annie Leibovitz: Behind The Scenes With Queen Latifah as Ursula

Tagged: Art of Disney, BtS, DLR, Video, WDW

Filed: Art of Disney, Behind the Scenes, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort