The legacy of Walt’s famous mouse continues to resonate. The Walt Disney Family Museum has announced plans for an amazing new exhibit titled Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World, from May 16, 2019-January 6, 2020. Guest curated by acclaimed animator Andreas Deja, this special exhibition chronicles Mickey’s impact and influence on art and entertainment over the past nine decades and tells the story of his origin, rise to fame, and enduring world-wide appeal, juxtaposed with Walt Disney’s inspiring and parallel story.
Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World features more than 400 objects, including rare and never-before-seen original sketches, character model sheets, and concept artwork, together with nostalgic merchandise, vintage photographs, and a variety of Mickey’s earliest and most recent animated short films. The exhibition is a testament to Mickey’s transcendent influence, from cartoons and comic books to real-life appearances at Disney Parks worldwide. It also highlights the incredible artists who are responsible for his success: legendary animators and artists including Ub Iwerks, Les Clark, and Fred Moore, plus contemporary talent such as Andreas Deja, Eric Goldberg, and Mark Henn.
“I have been collecting and studying classic Disney animation drawings for a long time,” says Deja. “Among them are very rare sketches of Mickey Mouse by master animators like Fred Moore, Frank Thomas, and others. Each artist applied their personal style to Mickey, not only in the way he is drawn but also in the way he moves and acts. By analyzing these beautiful drawings, I am constantly reminded of how wonderful and magical character animation can be. I am proud to include these artworks, never before seen by the public, along with many other artifacts and production pieces, all depicting the one and only Mickey Mouse.”
Younger visitors and the young-at-heart are invited to dive further into the exhibition through in-gallery interactive elements and hands-on activities. Additionally, an exciting pairing of programs held during the opening week of the exhibition will highlight the extensive process of curating such a comprehensive exhibition, and Mickey’s inimitable appeal to all walks of life:
Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World Preview with Guest Curator Andreas Deja
Wed, May 15 | 1–2 p.m. and 4–5 p.m.
Voicing an Icon: Mickey Talks with Bret Iwan
Sat, May 18 | 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 3–4:30 p.m.
Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World is organized by The Walt Disney Family Museum and will be presented in the Diane Disney Miller Exhibition Hall from May 16, 2019 through January 6, 2020. General admission tickets are $25 (adults), $20 (seniors and students), $15 (ages 6 to 17)
For more info, visit www.waltdisney.org
