Sunday, August 05, 2007

The Disney Gallery

I wasn't the only one who stopped past the Disney Gallery today to say goodbye before it closes. Disney legend Alice Davis also stopped by for an informal visit. (See photo above.)

For those who don't know, the Disney Gallery is located above "Pirates of the Carribean" in Disneyland, and since 1987 has featured rotating exhibits of artwork by Disney-affiliated artists past and present. As a local historian, I've especially appreciated the many exhibits that shed light on the history of "Walt's Park" -- from concept drawings to artifacts.

Originally, this space was intended as an apartment for the Disney family, but it wasn't yet complete when Walt died. Even after its conversion into an art gallery, these well-appointed digs and the adjoining courtyard remained a welcome respite of calm in the middle of a crowded theme park. It will be missed.

Alice said she would miss the Gallery and hoped it would re-open elsewhere in the park.

Later, I overheard a fan approach her and ask about her work on "it's a small world." She replied that she'd listened to that song all day, every day, for many weeks (sometimes even backwards), and hinted that something unpleasant would befall anyone who so much as hummed the song to her. She said this with a wink however, and admitted that she still goes on the ride once in a while.

1 comment:

Chris Jepsen said...

I know what you mean.

FYI, the Disney Gallery is supposedly closing tomorrow (Tuesday), so you still have a little time left.