50th Anniversary of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Disney Dream Portraits by Annie Leibovitz: Behind the Scenes with Taylor Swift as Rapunzel

posted on January 25th, 2013 by George Savvas, Public Relations Director, Disneyland 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:

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February Merchandise Events You Will Love at Disney Parks

posted on January 23rd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


I’ll be changing my name to “Cupid” in February, because I know all of you procrastinators out there are still in search of the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved ones. Here are a few events, artist signings, product releases and more, that are sure to keep you out of the dog house and on everyone’s good list.

Here’s the breakdown of when you need to go and where you’ll need to be.

Disneyland Resort

Main Street Electrical Parade 'To Honor America' Sculpture by Robert Olszewski

February 2: Meet miniaturist Robert Olszewski from 9–11 a.m. at the Disneyana Shop in Disneyland park as we celebrate the release of the Main Street Electrical Parade “To Honor America” sculpture.

February 2–3: Artisan M. Andonia is back, with some of the newest releases in her collection. See her from 1–4 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District.

February 9: Be there for the launch of the HARVEYS for Disney Couture Good vs. Evil Princess Seatbeltbag Collection along with Dana and Melanie Harvey from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at Disney Vault 28 in the Downtown Disney District.

'Kimono Minnie' Artist Signing at WonderGround Gallery with Sean D’Anconia

February 9: WonderGround Gallery “Kimono Minnie” artist signing with Sean D’Anconia, 3–5 p.m.

The Sweetheart Collection from Precious Moments Doll Maker Linda Rick

February 14–17: The Sweetheart Collection debuts with a special appearance by Precious Moments doll maker Linda Rick at World of Disney in the Downtown Disney District from noon–10 p.m., each day.

Finally, artist in residence Sean Chao will appear every Friday–Saturday from 5–9 p.m. at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District.

Walt Disney World Resort

Meet Disney Design Group Artist Patty Landing for Release of Second 2013 Poster Series, Vinylmation and 2013 Calendar

February 1: Meet Disney Design Group Artist Patty Landing from 5–7 p.m. at Disney’s Pin Traders in Downtown Disney Marketplace for the release of the second 2013 Poster Series pin and Vinylmation, as well as the 2013 calendar.

Join Robert Olszewski for the Release of 'The Plaza Restaurant ~ Plaza Ice Cream Parlor' at Downtown Disney Join Robert Olszewski for the Release of 'The Plaza Restaurant ~ Plaza Ice Cream Parlor' at Downtown Disney

February 9–10: Robert Olszewski is back for the release of “The Plaza Restaurant ~ Plaza Ice Cream Parlor” sculpture, first at Uptown Jewelers in Magic Kingdom Park, February 9 (10 a.m.–noon and 3–5 p.m.) and then February 10 at Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace (noon–2 p.m. and 4–6 p.m.).

February 9–10: Jewelry Designer Petra Azar is making a special appearance at Tren-D in the Downtown Disney Marketplace, both days from 10 a.m.–10 p.m., as we debut Symbols of Love from the Studio Petra Azar collection.

February 9–17: The Sweetheart Collection debuts at Once Upon a Toy in the Downtown Disney Marketplace.

February 13–18: Renowned international artist Larry Dotson will be at the Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace, throughout the week during store hours.

Meet Duncan Yo-Yo Professionals at Walt Disney World Resort

February 15–17: Duncan® Yo-Yo Professionals will show you the strings as they perform fun and amazing Yo-Yo tricks at Once Upon A Toy in Downtown Disney Marketplace.

February 19–24: David E. Doss will appear to debut some of his newest works at Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace.

For more information on all of these events and more, visit www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

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New HARVEYS Good vs Evil Seatbeltbag Collection Debuts at Disney Vault 28 at Downtown Disney District

posted on January 15th, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


Are you a fan of Disney Princesses? Villains? Or HARVEYS? Consider this new release a triple threat, because if you answered yes to each of those questions, you’re in trouble. On February 9, Disney Theme Park Merchandise and HARVEYS will debut the newest collection called HARVEYS for Disney Couture Good vs. Evil Princess and Villains Seatbeltbag Collection. As you might have noticed with past releases, we’ve only been able to share some of the artwork appearing on the bag, never the finished product. Well, I have a very special surprise for you, because the team at HARVEYS has given me the ‘okay’ to give you, our Disney and HARVEYS fans, the first look at one of the totes in the collection.

The Front of One of Four of the Totes in the Newest HARVEYS Good vs Evil Seatbeltbag Collection, Featuring Snow White The Back of One of Four of the Totes in the Newest HARVEYS Good vs Evil Seatbeltbag Collection, Featuring the Evil Queen

Cool, right? I know you want to see them all – who wouldn’t? I can tell you there are four different styles, but you’re going to have to visit Disney Vault 28 at the Disneyland Resort on February 9, to see who else made the cut.

I did, however, get the chance to catch up with our friends at HARVEYS who talked with owner Dana Harvey about the new collection and here’s what he had to say: “Our inspiration for this collection was of course, good vs. evil. As we all know, beneath the surface of any great story there are always two sides, especially when it comes to fairy tales, and that’s what we wanted to capture. For each character we created original, hand-drawn artwork, used whimsical stroke-lines and accented them with soft watercolor tones. It gave the collection an aura of dreaminess, which is extremely different than many of the other lines we create. Each bag tells a story and in a sense is a true work of art. We hope that no matter which side you pick, good vs. evil, princess or villain… that you’ll find your own way to identify with each of these iconic characters, expressed in a way like never before.”

As part of this special release, HARVEYS creators Dana and Melanie Harvey will be returning to Disney Vault 28 for a special appearance and signing from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on February 9. The collection will be available to purchase beginning at shop opening (10 a.m.) on the day of release.

In addition, guests can receive a HARVEYS for Disney Couture canvas tote with any HARVEYS for Disney Couture Good vs Evil Princess and Villains Seatbeltbag purchase. Limit One (1) per guest, per day. Offer not valid on Seatbeltbag accessories. Available while supplies last.

Curious to know whether they will be available at the Walt Disney World Resort as well? Expect to find them at TrenD and other select locations in the weeks following the initial launch.

It’s bound to be a fairy tale ending for anyone who ends up with one of these new bags. Need I say more… just plan to be there!

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Events to Kick Off the New Year at Disney Parks

posted on January 3rd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


Happy New Year, Disney Fans!!

Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to get back in the swing of things. So what’s coming your way? Well, let’s take a quick look and bring you up to speed, so that you don’t miss a beat on either coast.

Special Artist Showcases at Downtown Disney to Feature David Doss and Larry Dotson Artwork Special Artist Showcases at Downtown Disney to Feature David Doss and Larry Dotson Artwork Special Artist Showcases at Downtown Disney to Feature David Doss and Larry Dotson Artwork

Now through January 6 at the Walt Disney World Resort, be sure you keep an eye out for special artist showcases featuring David Doss, who will be appearing at the Art of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace, as well as Larry Dotson, who will be on hand at the Main Street Gallery in Magic Kingdom Park.

On January 4, Disney Design Group Principal Graphic Designer Dave Keefer will be appearing at D Street in the Downtown Disney Marketplace from 5-7 p.m. I’d tell you more, but Steven Miller has all the details on this exciting collection of new poster-inspired artwork, which highlights the luckier side of 2013. Tip: Continue to watch for additional artist meet and greet events taking place throughout the year.

About halfway through the month, the streets will be packed with runDisney participants taking part in the 20th Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, so after you cross the finish line, be sure you swing by D Street on January 13 from 5-7 p.m. to have this year’s runDisney Mickey Mouse Vinylmation signed by Disney Design Group Artist Maria Clapsis. Want to know more? Well, you’re in luck, because Steven will also be giving you a glimpse of this new release and much more that will be coming your way as part of this year’s celebratory marathon.

That brings us to January 18 and 19. Now, this particular artist needs no introduction. I’m sure most of you are familiar with his work, as it has been seen on a variety of Disney Theme Park Merchandise over the years. That’s why we’re excited to have Disney Design Group Senior Character Artist Monty Maldovan appearing at the Art of Disney in Downtown Disney Marketplace at the Walt Disney World Resort, from 6–8 p.m. each day. Curious about what pieces he’ll be signing? Take a look:

Disney Design Group Senior Character Artist Monty Maldovan Artwork Featuring Mickey and His Pal Figment Disney Design Group Senior Character Artist Monty Maldovan Artwork Featuring Mickey and His Pal the Florida Orange Bird Disney Design Group Senior Character Artist Monty Maldovan Artwork Featuring Mickey and His Pal Duffy the Disney Bear

If you’re asking yourself, “What about all of us Disney fans on the west coast?” – never fear! There are artist showcases taking place each weekend from 1-4 p.m., beginning January 12 at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District.

Look for details on these events, artist showcases, releases and signings on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

So what’s on the radar for next month? Look for artist showcases and signings taking place at the Walt Disney World Resort and appearances by Linda Rick, Noah and more at the Disneyland Resort. I’ll be sharing more details soon!

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Hop On In, Jessica! Ink & Paint Cel to Debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

posted on December 14th, 2012 by Erin Catalano, Merchandise Communication Specialist, Walt Disney World Resort


Looking for a gift that will “drive” your friends and family wild for the holidays? Then pull over, because on December 15, do I have the ticket for you. The newest limited edition 1,000 piece, titled Hop On In, Jessica, from the Studios Ink & Paint Collection features none other than Jessica and Roger Rabbit, as they set off to cruise through the streets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Wondering which part has actually been hand-painted by our talented Studios Ink & Paint team? I’ll give you one guess… she’s quite a shining star!

Here’s a look at the new cel!
“Hop

Special Note: The first 750 framed cels ordered will come with a special limited edition pin to commemorate the release.

“Hop

There are a few formats in which it will be available and a few ways you can purchase. Here are some tips:

  • Unframed Cel – $125
  • Black Frame and Cel – $215
  • Black Frame with Pin and Cel – $245
  • Black Frame with Pin, Postcard and Cel – $255
  • Gold Frame and Cel – $285

If you have already decided to add this to the top of your list for the holidays or know just whom to get it for, then here’s an added bonus. On December 15 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Ink & Paint artists, Erin Magill, Theodora M. DeLaney, David Rippberger, Lynn Rippberger and Sharon K. Vincent will actually be on hand to sign it at Studios Animation Gallery at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

If you are unable to attend but would still like to purchase the Ink & Paint cel, then contact Walt Disney Event Services to pre-order your cel at 407-827-7600, Monday – Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. But please note: All pre-orders must be placed with Walt Disney Event Services no later than Friday, December 14, 2012 by 12:00 p.m. EST.

I’ve got more details on this release on www.ArtofDisneyParks.com, so check it out when you have time.

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Park Icon Artist Sketch Collection to Debut New Walt Disney Inspired Pieces at Disneyland Park

posted on December 5th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


Walt Disney is an icon, a visionary and an inspiration to many worldwide. Today, as we celebrate the date of Walt’s birth, it seemed rather fitting to also announce some of the newest Park Icon Sketches you will see debut in the coming weeks at The Disney Gallery at Disneyland park, including a couple of pieces inspired by the symbolic “Partners” statue which stands proudly at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Here’s your first look at what will be coming your way, along with a few holiday pieces to add to your collection.

I hope you, too, will celebrate the man behind the magic!

So, what other holiday treats do I know about? I have quite a few things up my sleeves, so keep watching the Disney Parks Blog

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Pick Your Side: Good vs. Evil at WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort

posted on November 30th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


The battle between good and evil has never been stronger. So the questions become … Who will rise to the challenge? Who will prevail? Only a peek inside WonderGround Gallery will reveal the ever-lasting rivalries of our fairytale world. Join us on December 15 for the launch of the “Good vs. Evil” exhibit, as we unveil interpretations of frightful and delightful characters by various artists. Our morning lineup of artists will feature J. Scott Campbell, Miss Mindy, Nei, Noah, Mike Stilkey, Sean Chao and Kristin Tercek from 9-11 a.m. But be sure to stick around, because Stephanie Buscema, Martin Hsu, Jacki Huang, Jerrod Maruyama, Ming Ong and Michelle Romo will be appearing from 1-3 p.m. that same day.

Here’s a hot tip: Heard from my villain friends that they will be featured on custom Vinylmation designed by some of the morning artists. Personally, I think those villains are just trying to butter me up. Either way, I’ll make sure to post more about the exhibit, product launches and signings in the coming weeks. Until then, here’s a look at a few images you will see as part of the “Good vs. Evil” exhibit:

What other excitement lies within these walls? Find out in December. What characters are you most excited to see? And will it make you choose sides between good and evil?

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Merchandise at Disney California Adventure Park is Definitely One For the Road

posted on November 20th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


It’s official…the holidays are in high gear in Disney California Adventure park. Here are a few things that will be popping up in stores over the next couple of months that you should definitely keep on your radar.

Welcome to Cars Land – Season’s Speedings Billboard Collection Coming to Disney California Adventure Park

Dashing Through the Snow Tees Coming to Disney California Adventure Park Happy New Gear Tees Coming to Disney California Adventure Park

First up are a few things to get you in the spirit of the season, from our Welcome to Cars Land – Season’s Speedings billboard collection (which appears on a tee, fleece and postcard) to our Dashing Through the Snow and Happy New Gear tees for kids. Tip: Look for these art images on mugs, too, for those needing a little bit more of a kick start in the morning.

If you like what you’ve seen so far, get ready, because these next items are going to make you stop in your tracks. For you Disney fans who have scoured every inch of Cars Land, you’ve probably noticed the Pixar images of Radiator Springs on the display rack in the Cozy Cone Motel lobby – now look for some of these images on tees, fleece, mugs, key chains, magnets and postcards. And for those of you in the mood to “cozy” up this winter, you have come to the right place: Cozy Cone Motel tees are all the rage, so be sure to pick one up.

Flo and the Motorama Girls Merchandise Coming to Disney California Adventure Park Flo and the Motorama Girls Merchandise Coming to Disney California Adventure Park Flo and the Motorama Girls Merchandise Coming to Disney California Adventure Park

Now for those fans with more of a “Go With the Flo” attitude… consider this perfect timing! You’ll find that phrase and others like “Hubba, Hubba, Hubcaps,” “Back To My Routes,” “I’ve Taken A Shine to You” and “Ain’t No Highway Long Enough” on a variety of apparel items including tees, long sleeve shirts and tanks. So fill up! Because Flo and the Motorama Girls are cruising into Radiator Springs Curios and Ramone’s House of Body Art now.

Additions to the Champions Custom Speed Shop Collection Coming to Disney California Adventure Park Additions to the Champions Custom Speed Shop Collection Coming to Disney California Adventure Park Additions to the Champions Custom Speed Shop Collection Coming to Disney California Adventure Park

As you race toward the finish line to complete your holiday shopping, make sure that you make one last pit stop at Ramone’s House of Body Art. Why? Because on November 26, you will find an all-new expanded location (in the space known as Lube-O-Rama) with product themed to The Curb Feeler, Sparky’s Spark Plugs, Ornament Valley Oil, The Oil Pan and even more from our Champions Custom Speed Shop collection. Under the Hood Tip: Be on the lookout for specially created collectible signs themed to Greetings From Radiator Springs and Rust-eze.

New Limited Edition Figure Inspired by the Disney•Pixar 'Cars' Character John Lassetire New Chip Foose Art Piece, 'Finns,' at Disney California Adventure Park

Have I driven you completely crazy? If not, then you’re bound to speed through the streets for this next set of releases. On December 8, John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios and Principal Creative Advisor, Walt Disney Imagineering, will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of a new limited edition figure inspired by the Disney•Pixar “Cars” character, John Lassetire. Joining John for the signing is none other than Chip Foose, owner of Foose Design and star of TV’s “Overhaulin’,” who has created a new line of “Cars”-inspired collectibles, including a Piston Cup, “Cars” hood ornament business card holder, t-shirt, and one of his newest pieces of art, titled “Finns,” depicting Finn McMissile in front of the Cadillac Range. Special Tip: John and Chip will appear from 2-4 p.m. on December 8 at Off the Page in Disney California Adventure park. Check out all of the details at www.ArtofDisneyParks.com.

Have you told Santa Claus what you want yet? Time is ticking, so don’t miss out! Santa has taken up residence in Elias & Co., so be sure to add some of these great Cars Land-inspired items to your holiday list.


Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on the holiday season at Disney Parks, and join the conversation on Twitter by using the hashtag #DisneyHolidays.

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Jack and Sally Appear on Art at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort

posted on November 19th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort


Jack Skellington by Artist Noah, Part of 'Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas'-Themed Collection Sally by Artist Noah, Part of 'Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas'-Themed Collection

Kicking off the month at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District is the launch of a new collection by Noah themed to “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” on December 1. Two of the film’s most notable characters, Jack Skellington and Sally, will appear on a variety of merchandise including original artwork, limited edition giclees, deluxe prints and custom Vinylmation (limited to 24 with coffin stand). Noah will appear from 9 a.m. – noon.

Special Tip: Available for a limited time and only at WonderGround Gallery, you will find a gallery-wrapped version of the Jack Skellington giclee. So if you are a fan of Jack or know someone who loves “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” consider this a “must-have” gift.

In addition, Noah will be the Artist in Residence for December where you will find him doing live performance art every Friday and Saturday night (excluding December 1) and debuting some of his newest works.
'Steamboat - Frosty Holiday Minnie' by Miss Mindy, Appearing at WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort

Rounding out the events for December are artisans Miss Mindy, who will appear December 1 from 1-4 p.m. for the release of her new 3D sculptures, and Mama’s Little Babies, whose jewelry will be showcased during the entire month, with a special appearance by Cheri Lewis on December 29-30 from 1–4 p.m. each day.

Look for details on all of this and more on ArtofDisneyParks.com.

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Download Our ‘Love the Festival’ Festival of the Masters Artwork Wallpaper

posted on November 5th, 2012 by Will Gay, Creative Director, Disney's Yellow Shoes Creative Group


Hi everyone. This year’s Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels is coming up soon and a lot of Disney artists (including myself) have been working for months behind the scenes to prepare the pieces that we’ll showcase at this year’s event.

Here’s a wallpaper of one of my works that you’ll see at this year’s Festival of the Masters (Nov. 9-11 at Downtown Disney). It will be a small edition of hand-pulled silk screens on heavy paper stock. The design, called “Love the Festival”, is inspired by the simple notion that some things just go great together.

Hope to see you out there!

'Love the Festival' Festival of the Masters Design by Will Gay

Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it.



Looking forward to this year’s Festival of the Masters? Take a look back at last year’s event in the posts below:

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