Today, the Art of Disney location in EPCOT’s Future World closed its doors and moved into The American Adventure.
We heard about this change in location back in October, when Heritage Manor was announced that it would be the new permanent location for Art of Disney in EPCOT.
The sign of the old Art of Disney location was covered up today by a tarp and the windows darkened from guest view.
The closure and relocation is all a part of the Project Gamma expansion for a new Future World.
However, back in World Showcase, Heritage Manor has been transformed into an all-new Art of Disney location. The new store opened up at 11:00 AM with the rest of the World Showcase pavilions. It was full of Cast Members and Imagineers still wiping off saw dust and taking measurements when the doors opened.
The entire shop has been modified with new displays and shelving units to hold all of the various artwork. The Cast Members here are still wearing The American Adventure costumes, instead of a unique Art of Disney one.
The store is nicely lit by the sunlight from the open doors, sconce lighting, and a chandelier in the middle of the store. Additional lighting has been installed as well to highlight certain pieces of art.
Large figures and collectible art pieces are displayed throughout, enticing guests to take a peek and dip into their wallets a bit.
The open doors really bring in the bright sun of Florida to help illuminate these art pieces. Cast Members are eagerly supervising the store’s grand opening.
Glass display cases have been added, with either a rustic wooden look or a crisp patriotic design.
A lot of the artwork within can be found at other Art of Disney locations throughout Walt Disney World, but there is a large collection to be looked at here.
The cash registers are housed in a dark gray paneled design with a cream counter top. Some art pieces reside behind the cash register as well.
Off to the side, there is a unique touch to this Art of Disney location, by featuring some Disney art history.
Beside it is a cork board that features “The Animation Adventure” of the Disney animation company. This board shows the timeline progression that Walt faced with his own animation adventure.
With photographs, original concept art and brief moments in history, this tribute to Walt Disney and his legacy is a really nice addition to this location.
What do you think of this new Art of Disney store? Will you be stopping by as you make your way around the World Showcase?