On Sunday, September 24, 2023, artist and voice of Mickey Mouse Bret Iwan could be found at Disneyland signing his artwork at Disneyana on Main Street, USA. The event allowed guests the chance to meet this magical man and also get artwork signed that they purchased that day, which he had designed. On hand for the event was his artwork that brings Mickey Mouse into the world of some favorite National Parks. The series includes painting of Mickey Mouse at Bryce Canyon, Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Sequoia, and Yellowstone. The pieces were available on canvas and also as prints.
There were two opportunities on Sunday to meet Bret Iwan. The first was from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The second was from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Both were at Disneyana. For guests meeting Bret, he was very gracious and happy to chat as he signed (and personalized if that was preferred) the artwork. Anyone who has met Bret Iwan knows that not only is he an engaging conversationalist, but he is also quite whitty. Sunday was no exception.
About Bret Iwan
Bret Iwan is the fourth official voice of Mickey Mouse. This is a role he has held since 2009. His first recording in the role was for Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Adventurers Celebration in June of 2009. Today, his voice can be heard around the world as Mickey Mouse in various programs like Mickey and the Roadster Racers/Mickey Mouse Mixed-Up Adventures, Mickey Mouse Funhouse, Mickey Saves Christmas, along with multiple other shows, video games, and also in the parks (including in Fantasmic! at Disneyland when it is running).
Along with lending his voice to Mickey Mouse, Bret is also a talented artist. He went to school and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the Ringling College of Art and Design in 2004. He then moved to Kansas City to start a successful career at Hallmark Greeting Cards, utilizing his artistic skills. Around the time he became the official voice of Mickey Mouse, he also was introduced to the team at the Collectors Editions and the Disney Fine Art program. This led to a collaboration that has seen Bret bring his artistic skills into the world of Disney.
Mickey Mouse 95th Birthday Official Portrait
Through the years, Bret has created multiple portraits of Mickey Mouse, including the 95th Birthday Official Portrait of Mickey Mouse. This was unveiled at the recent Destination D23 event. This official portrait of Mickey Mouse joins the ranks of paintings that date back to 1953 when John Hench painted an official portrait of Mickey Mouse for his 25th birthday. In 1978, Hench would again paint a portrait of Mickey Mouse for his 50th birthday. He returned to paint portraits for Mickey’s 60th, 70th, and 75th birthday before the torch was passed to Art Director Paul Felix for Mickey Mouse’s 80th. The 90th Birthday Official Portrait of Mickey Mouse was painted by Disney Animated Mark Henn. Bret Iwan now becomes the fourth person to paint an official portrait of Mickey Mouse for one of his birthdays.
The 95th Birthday Official Portrait of Mickey Mouse is a magical painting of Sorcerer Mickey Mouse called “Swept Up Into The Magic.” This painting shows the magic of Disney and the power of wishing upon a star, as so often are themes in Disney stories throughout the last 100 years. The portrait is being released as The Walt Disney Company celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Bret Iwan continues to create new magic for Disney fans around the globe to experience, both with his voice and also with his paint brushes. His artwork can be found on the Disney Fine Art website. Bret Iwan also makes regular appearances at conventions and other Disney events around the globe. He can be found on his Instagram, where he frequently shares where he will be appearing.
What do you think of Bret Iwan visiting Disneyland and sharing his time and talents with guests? Have you met Bret before? What is your favorite piece of art that Bret has created for Disney? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
