I have always been in awe of cast members of The Walt Disney Company. From the Imagineers who dream up and design new state-of-the-art attractions for the theme parks to the entertainers on screen and on stage who bring beloved characters and stories to life – talent in the Disney community is truly second to none. And Disney animators are most certainly no exception. Following in Walt’s footsteps and building on his legacy, animators today create riveting television series, shorts, and feature-length films that continue to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. Not too long ago, we stumbled upon an opportunity to meet and interact with some of these amazing animators. Towards the end of a busy day touring Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we decided to check out Animation Academy at The Magic of Disney Animation building where we learned how to sketch a family favorite – Donald Duck! Academy Artist Megan Duff led the class and taught us all of the basics of animation, and even shared personal anecdotes along the way of her time working as a Disney animator. This impromptu decision led to one of our most memorable afternoons on a Disney vacation! We had such a great time and were thrilled to each walk away with a really neat and very personal souvenir, and we have made sure to include these experiences on our trips ever since.
Although The Magic of Disney Animation closed its doors in 2015 to make way for the new Star Wars Launch Bay attraction, drawing lessons with Disney animators are still available at other locations at both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Classes are currently offered at Animation Academy at Disney California Adventure Park and The Animation Experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Participants at both attractions get to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake as talented artists teach the step-by-step process of sketching favorite Disney characters. The classes are fun and laid back and a nice chance to relax for a bit away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Sessions are held regularly throughout the day at both locations, with each session lasting about a half-hour. Best of all, the characters presented at the lessons vary so you can attend as often as you want and come home with a unique collection of artwork from your vacation!
Whether or not you have plans to be in the theme parks soon, be sure to check out the “Learn to Draw” series of tutorials presented by the Disney Parks Blog. Similar to the animation experiences in the parks, they are yet another wonderful opportunity to sketch popular Disney characters alongside some of the many brilliant animators who bring them to life for us every single day!
“Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive.” – Walt Disney
