See rare Mickey artwork during Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World exhibition at Walt Disney Family Museum

in Events, The Walt Disney Company

Walt to the World

Credit: Disney

Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World, an exclusive new exhibition celebrating both Mickey and Walt Disney, is coming to the Walt Disney Family Museum in Spring 2019.

This special exhibition, which runs from May 16, 2019 – January 6, 2020, chronicles Mickey’s influence on art and entertainment over the past 90 years. Guests will experience the story of Mickey’s origin, rise to fame, and enduring worldwide appeal juxtaposed with Walt Disney’s own parallel story. Here’s more on the exhibition from the Walt Disney Family Museum:

Guest curated by legendary animator Andreas Deja, 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. Among them are very rare sketches of Mickey Mouse by master animators like Fred Moore, Frank Thomas, and others,” said Deja. “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.”

Classic poster featuring Mickey Mouse beaming with his signature smile and hands on his hips, set above bold lettering that announces “Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse.” A must-see for Disney fans and theme park visitors alike, this artwork embodies the nostalgic magic and joy found at Disney parks worldwide.

Pencil sketch of Mickey Mouse standing with a cheerful smile, one arm raised and eyes closed, capturing the timeless charm seen in classic Disney park artwork.
Les Clark
Mickey Mouse leads a whimsical parade of animated playing cards through a magical Disney setting, with the Ace of Hearts taking the spotlight up front—a vibrant scene reminiscent of classic Mickey moments celebrated at the Walt Disney Family Museum.
Tom Wood
Concept art of Mickey Mouse dressed as a medieval tailor, complete with handwritten notes and Disney production credits, captures the whimsical spirit guests love to see in Disney Parks parades and stage shows—reflecting the timeless appeal found in exhibits at the Walt Disney Family Museum.
Brave Little Tailor model sheet
Classic black and white sketches of Mickey Mouse, featuring a variety of expressive faces and full-body poses, appear against a bright white background—evoking the nostalgic charm found at Disney parks and the iconic spirit celebrated in Walt Disney World’s tributes to Mickey.
Mickey Mouse model sheet

“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,” said Deja.

In addition to original animation pieces, artifacts, and film clips illustrating Mickey’s rich history, visitors can see pop art interpretations of Disney’s beloved mouse. Iconic works by Gottfried Helnwein, Damien Hirst, Wayne Thiebaud, and Andy Warhol will be displayed alongside contemporary works by Lorelay Bové, Tennessee Loveless, Eric Robison, and San Francisco-based muralist Sirron Norris.

Mickey Mouse surrounded by energetic red doodles and a crown above his head, with the phrase “Stay Calm”—a fun, lively design reminiscent of the magical creativity found at Disney parks and attractions.
Tennessee Loveless

Visitors are invited to enhance their experience with in-gallery interactive elements and hands-on activities. Plus, if you visit the exhibition during its opening week, you can see two programs highlighting the extensive process of curating this comprehensive celebration of Mickey and Walt Disney.

  • Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World Preview with Guest Curator Andreas Deja: Wed, May 15 | 1–2pm and 4–5pm
  • Voicing an Icon: Mickey Talks with Bret Iwan: Sat, May 18 | 11am–12:30pm and 3–4:30pm

During the event’s run, you can visit the Museum Store to purchase a catalogue featuring artworks showcased in the exhibition for $50.

Museum hours:

Open Wednesday through Monday: 10am to 6pm, last entry at 4:45pm. Closed on Tuesdays and the following public holidays: January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25. Early closure at 4pm on December 24 and December 31.

Pricing:

  • General admission ticket: $25 adults, $20 seniors & students, $15 youth (ages 6 to 17)
  • General admission + special exhibition combo ticket: $35 adults, $30 seniors & students, $25 youth
  • Special exhibition stand-alone ticket: $15 all levels
  • Museum admission is free for members and children under 5

Location: 

The Presidio of San Francisco, 104 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94129

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. For more information, head over to their website.

All images copyright Disney.

in Events, The Walt Disney Company

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