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 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 dazzling 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 create pieces exclusively for 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!
While art is inherently subjective—what resonates with one person might not evoke the same response in another—it’s this diversity of perspective that makes the festival so captivating. Today, I wanted to take a closer look at a few standout pieces that particularly caught our eye, offering a glimpse into the wide range of styles and themes featured at this year’s event, without diminishing the equally valuable contributions of all the artists involved.
Rob Kaz
Rob has captivated beloved theme park memories in these works, while adding Mickey and the gang into the story. You’ll find these pieces within the World Showcase Promenade, near the Deco Delights Food Studio.
This sweet scene is perfectly topped off with the Electrical Water Pageant out the monorail window.
“It’s important to me that what’s on my canvas is more than a pretty picture – I want a story to be told – one that perhaps is loose enough for collectors to build upon as they view the scene. And I want them to connect with the story – that’s why I paint scenes that personally make me happy, knowing others might have similar experiences. And when you look even deeper, I want you to notice technique, lighting, color, composition, brushwork and softness.”
“Most importantly, I want the artwork to leave you smiling.” – Rob Kaz
Thomas Kinkade Studios
One of the more recognizable Disney fine artists is Thomas Kinkade. You’ve probably seen his artworks on many posters, puzzles, and various souvenirs over the years.
Thomas Kinkade is the famed “Painter of Light” who loved to share his passion for art and his creative process with other artists throughout his career. Thom believed in supporting artist development and exchanged ideas with artists. Through this collaborative environment, Thom passed down his methods and imparted the techniques, concepts and vision for his signature Kinkadian style.Today, the artists of the Thomas Kinkade Studios apply many of the same techniques created and used by Thom during his lifetime; from sketching to digital and oil brushwork, to image recapture and his use of light. Over time, these mastered skills have evolved into a Kinkadian style of art adored by art collectors around the world.
There’s an entire Thomas Kinkade Studios tent set up for EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts, found near the World Showplace Promenade, towards Canada.
One of my favorite, more obscure piece from Kinkade is the “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” This Dagobah scene is so rich in detail, you can almost feel the humidity from the murky planet. Oh wait, that’s just Florida.
Disney Fine Art
Over at CommuniCore Plaza, you’ll find a few tents devoted to Disney Fine Art pieces. There are some pretty standout selections here, but these two really grabbed our attention.
— “Frog Legs” by Beau Hufford
— “Possum Posse” by Tim Rogerson
Little Orange Bird
Besides Figment, another popular character you’ll notice various artful interpretations of is one Little Orange Bird. Here are just a few of my favorites.
How cute is this one where he’s sweeping some fall leaves off his bird house – complete with a Hidden Mickey?
— “Orange Bird House” by Michelle St. Laurent.
I couldn’t help but think this cute little guy is wishing for the return of his Citrus Swirl for Magic Kingdom. Heck, I’d take it somewhere in EPCOT at this point. Look at those eyes! He’s just a baby.
— “Orange Bird’s Wish” by Martin Hsu
My Happy Place
Last up for today was my one take-home piece from my first 2025 Festival of the Arts visit. I’ll definitely be back for more, but this little print stole my heart! “My Happy Place – Bambi” is a festival-exclusive piece from Fenway Fan, all about finding peace and joy in the present moment. I found this at a Disney Artists tent between the Morocco and France pavilions.
See anything you like? Will you be stopping by EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts? It’s happening now through February 24th!
