It’s an exciting time for fans of Disney Fine Art! As summer comes to an end, there are even more beautiful pieces of art to gawk at and then add to collections than ever. With the upcoming Destination D23, the 30th anniversary of The Goofy Movie, Haunted Mansion Holiday, and a whole lot more. As the spooky season kicks off and with the holidays on the horizon, it is a great time to take a look at Disney Fine Art and what it has to offer (there is no shortage!).
Michael Young, CEO of Collectors Editions, took some time to share about the artistry found in Disney Fine Art, the events, and his own Disney journey.
What Exactly Is Disney Fine Art
Michael Young: Collectors Editions is the official licensee selected by The Walt Disney Company to create interpretive works of art under the banner of Disney Fine Art. The collection features originals and limited editions—at different price points—based on beloved stories and characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Walt Disney Pictures, and occasionally Disney Parks. Each piece is an artist’s unique take on the Disney magic.
Destination D23: Showcasing Art & Artists
Disney Fine Art will have a dedicated retail space August 29–31 at Destination D23 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Florida.
Michael Young: We’re excited to feature four incredible interpretive artists—Adrienne Boley, Dom Corona, Michelle St.Laurent, and Tim Rogerson—each premiering new works in person for the very first time.
In addition, since everyone’s celebrating the 30th anniversary of “A Goofy Movie,” we’re bringing in Jason Marsden, the voice of Max. He’ll be with us each day, signing artworks inspired by the film. It’s going to be a real treat for fans.
A Magical Mickey by Bret Iwan
One of the highlights of the Disney Fine Art presence is a stunning portrait of Mickey Mouse.
Michael Young: That’s “Swept Up in the Magic” by Bret Iwan, the official voice of Mickey Mouse. The piece honors Mickey’s 95th anniversary and was inspired by his iconic role in “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” from “Fantasia,” which itself is celebrating its 85th anniversary.
Bret, a graduate of the renowned Ringling College of Art and Design and who worked as a Hallmark artist, also recently illustrated “One Wild Summer,” a children’s book by Ryan March. His artwork beautifully captures Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and friends in a charming tale of one zany camping adventure.
Haunted Mansion Holiday: Happy Haunts & Halloween Town
Another seasonal favorite is making its return: Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland.
Michael Young: The overlay, inspired by the Disney film “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” is a whimsical collision of the holidays (Halloween and Christmas) in a way that has become a beloved tradition. Since the Mansion first opened in 1969 and the film debuted in 1993, both have inspired incredible artwork.
Collectors love pieces that capture both the eerie fun of the Haunted Mansion and the quirky imagination of Burton’s characters. These works consistently rank among our most popular.
A Disney Journey
Michael Young’s career with Disney spans more than three decades.
Michael Young: I started in 1991 at Walt Disney Records, during what I call the golden era. I helped develop the label’s first “Live Artist Concert Series” and worked in promoting Grammy Award-winning soundtracks for “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” and “The Lion King.”
In 1995, I moved into Disney Consumer Products with Walt Disney Art Classics, overseeing high-end collectibles and art for The Disney Store, Disney Parks, and independent galleries. We even launched innovative retail experiences aboard Disney Cruise Line and the short-lived but awe-inspiring Walt Disney Gallery locales.
In 2004, I became CEO of Collectors Editions, which evolved into a global leader in art publishing. One highlight was collaborating with Roy E. Disney on a limited-edition portfolio of images from “Destino,” the Academy Award–nominated short film envisioned initially by Walt Disney and Salvador Dalí.
Over the years, I’ve worked with legendary artists including James Coleman, Peter Ellenshaw, Eyvind Earle, Don Hahn, Tony Baxter, Carl Barks, and countless other artists, Disney Imagineers, and animators—a true privilege.
Looking Ahead
With Destination D23, Haunted Mansion, “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” and a steady flow of new artwork, Disney Fine Art is ending summer on a high note.
Michael Young: All of us at the Disney Fine Art portfolio are looking forward to meeting collectors and Disney fans at D23. For those who can’t join us, our latest works are always available at DisneyFineArt.com and on Instagram @DisneyFineArt.
Be sure to stop by the Disney Fine Art space at Destination D23 this coming weekend at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and check out all of the available offerings! Do you have any Disney Fine Art pieces in your collection? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
