The Walt Disney Archives shared six new Disney100 illustrations honoring the various eras of The Walt Disney Company, from the 1920s to today.
In honor of today’s centennial celebration for The Walt Disney Company, we present a series of six all-new illustrations that explore Disney’s creative endeavors through the eras, from the beginning of the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in 1923 to the Company’s latest cinematic, streaming, and Disney Parks adventures!
Illustrated by noted visual artist Sam Carter, and created in partnership with senior Disney designer Melanie Lapovich, the artwork debuted yesterday at @disneyd23‘s Disney100: D23 Royal Anniversary Ball at The Walt Disney Studios.
Enjoy this journey through beloved moments and milestones in Disney history from the 1920s, 1930s-40s, 1950s-70s, 1980s, 1990s-2000s, and 2010s-20s.
1920s
The Walt Disney Company was founded as the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio on October 16, 1923. The world was introduced to Mickey Mouse with the premiere of “Steamboat Willie” on November 18, 1928 (now considered Mickey and Minnie’s birthday).
1930s – 1940s
In 1937, Disney released “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” the first full-length animated film.
1950s – 1970s
In 1955, Disneyland opened. Walt Disney World followed in 1971 with Magic Kingdom.
1980s
EPCOT opened in 1982, introducing the world to Figment. Tokyo Disneyland was the first international Disney park, opening in 1983.
1990s – 2000s
Disneyland Paris opened as Euro Disney in 1992. The ’90s also brought us Pixar’s first full-length feature film, “Toy Story.” Disney Cruise Line set sail with the Disney Magic in 1998. Hong Kong Disneyland opened in 2005. Disney acquired Marvel Studios in 2009.
2010s – 2020s
“Frozen” was met with huge success when it came out in 2013. Disney acquired Lucasfilm and launched a new era of “Star Wars” with “The Force Awakens” in 2015. Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016. Disney’s newest animated film, “Wish,” will be released in theaters this November.
Which Disney100 illustration or era of the company is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
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