Destination D23 Walt Disney Archives Exhibit Tour: Global Inspirations and Concept Art

Exhibit Overview: Charting the Course

• 🗺️ The Walt Disney Archives exhibit, "Charting the Course: Disney’s Global Stories & Inspirations," explores the research and inspiration behind Disney projects.
• 🎯 The exhibit aligns with the event's theme of "Disney Worlds," showcasing how global stories and inspirations are integrated.

Research and Authenticity

• 📸 The exhibit begins by highlighting the research phase of Disney projects, emphasizing the importance of authenticity.
• ✈️ Case studies include Walt El Grupo's 1941 trip to South America, which informed "Saludos Amigos" and "The Three Caballeros."
• 🌍 Modern research trips to Asia and Africa that inspired Disney's Animal Kingdom are also featured, with extensive photography.

Concept Development

• 🎨 The research is shown to evolve into concepts, featuring artists like Mary Blair and Lee Blair whose illustrations were inspired by on-site experiences.
• ✍️ Joe Rodie's sketches and his personal sketchbook are displayed, illustrating his conceptual work for projects like Disney's Animal Kingdom, Aulani, and Pleasure Island.
• 👟 Rodie's worn boots from his expeditions are also exhibited, underscoring the tangible connection between research and creation.

Exhibit Highlights

• 🎭 Artifacts include artwork, photography, EPCOT Tapestry of Nations puppets, and EPCOT models.
• 🎬 Movie costumes and props are on display, alongside the Little Red Animatronic from Kilimanjaro Safaris.