EPCOT‘s International Festival of the Arts is a celebration of creativity in all its forms, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a vibrant world of visual art, performance, and culinary expression. With so many extraordinary pieces on display and for sale, it’s nearly impossible to see everything. But certain works may speak to us in a unique way, sparking personal connections or inspiration. This year’s festival is no exception with a beautiful array of talent on display.
This is a great time to explore new artists, visit your old favorites, and maybe purchase a piece of their work for your home. Many artists release pieces exclusively at the festival, too! Between the various artistic styles, gallery paintings and print sizes, plenty of Disney-themed and some non-Disney, there’s something for everyone!
A little disclaimer before we get started: Art is subjective. What connects with one person may not land the same way for someone else, and that range of perspectives is part of what makes the festival so compelling.
Today, I wanted to highlight a few pieces that stood out to us on the first day, offering a snapshot of the variety of styles and themes on display this year, while recognizing that every artist contributes something meaningful to the experience. And I’ll most likely end up featuring another round of favorites as we visit the festival again!
Scooter
Scott “Scooter” Burroughs is a former Disney animator known for his Mid-Century Modern-inspired paintings and illustrations. They capture a retro, joyful vibe, often featuring classic Disney Parks scenes celebrating a bygone era with cocktails, starbursts, vintage travel, and happier moments.
One of his newest pieces which debuted at the festival features Mickey and Minnie near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, with the monorail and Spaceship Earth in the background.
You’ll find Scooter’s art marketplace near the Germany pavilion.
EPCOT-Themed
You can find just about every Disney character represented at the festival, but I love to find those pieces specifically themed for EPCOT (like the Guardians one above!). Since Figment has been the festival’s mascot, you can spot him pretty much everywhere. Here are a few deeper cuts, too!
“Food Rocks 4 Ever!” – Caley Hicks | Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Caley Hicks is a merchandise designer for Disney; specializing in home decor, and Vinylmation collectible figures (remember those?)… and some adorable illustrations found at the festival!
“Painting New Dreams” – Ann Shen | Ann Shen is an illustrator, lettering artist, and author specializing in vibrant, whimsical artwork. Her illustration work is characterized by a strong use of color, modern graphic charm, retro nostalgia, and joyful optimism. Her illustrations can be found in art prints, home decor, apparel, theme park designs, and so much more – including a Disney x Ann Shen global home collection.
How cute is the inclusion of Disney Ducks on World Showcase Lagoon?
A Rainbow of Fantasy – Maria Stuckey | Figment aboard a carousel of color? This piece combines TWO Sherman Brothers songs, Wonderful World of Color and One Little Spark! Maria is also a designer of Disney Parks Merchandise, including many of the Artist Series collectible pins.
Artful Figment 3D – Miss Mindy | Last up in our EPCOT category, this one-of-a-kind piece can be found at Art of Disney at the American Adventure. Did you spot those not-so-hidden Mickey’s on his paint palette?
Mouse-ellaneous Favorites
Love is in the Air – Jerrod Maruyama | Celebrating Valentine’s Day with some cutie couples, this piece debuted at the festival!
The Perfect Harmony – Yesenia Moises | Are you seeing I 2 I with this colorful piece celebrating A Goofy Movie?
Peter Pan’s Flight – Stacey Aoyama | I’m a big fan of pointillism myself, and I feel the smaller use of that in the little London streetlights below, combined with the movement from the clouds and swirls of pixie dust, effectively captures how it feels to ride Peter Pan’s Flight.
So This is Love… – Miss Mindy | I found a few pieces of Robin Hood artworks at this year’s fest, but this one was by far the most detailed, featuring many beloved characters from the film. Not to mention Sir Hiss in his bubblegum bubble?!
Golly, what a day…
Don’t be surprised if a popular piece has sold out during your visit! If you see it and want it — get it. Artworks tend to rotate throughout the festival based on demand. See anything here you’d like to add to your collection? I’m still on the hunt for some Muppety pieces!
