Let me be honest, everything in the Magic Kingdom makes me smile, and I mean everything. From the moment I step off the monorail or the ferry and walk through the gates, I am a deliriously happy girl and my inner child becomes very present. One of the things that is sure to evoke a smile for me is the Disney Partners statue situated right in front of Cinderella’s Castle. There is just something so sweet about Walt holding Mickey’s hand with a welcoming smile as he watches over the kingdom they created together. In my view, it is a beautiful tribute to a brilliant man and his best friend.
Scultped by former animator and Imagineer, Blaine Gibson, this magnificent bronze monument took one year to complete before it was revealed in 1995. Not only has it become a park icon since its unveiling, but it is also one of the most photographed locations in the Magic Kingdom. Gibson based his depiction of Walt on a bust he originally created for him in the 60s. Despite the poor reception of the bust years before, Gibson found it quite the honor to depict Walt and his expression of happiness as he watched over the families having fun in his parks.
Most do not know that the statue does not reflect the original idea for the pose. Several different poses were designed and considered before an agreement was reached between Gibson and the Imagineers. One design idea featured Mickey running forward and pulling Walt behind him. Another idea featured Walt with the blueprints for Epcot rolled up in his right hand and Mickey with a small globe in his hands adorned with two mouse ears. And, then there was a more favored composition sketch that consisted of Mickey with a single-scoop ice cream cone in his hand. Sculpter Gibson liked the idea of the ice cream so much that he went as far as making a finished maquette of it. The final decision is the one we see today – Mickey with his arm at his side and Walt waving his hand over his kingdom. The emphasis is on Walt, the true genius behind all of the magic.
Next time you are standing in front of Partners statue, pay attention to incredible detail on the statue. Some of the details may be a bit foreign to guests who are not as familiar with Disney as some. For example the “STR” logo on Walt’s tie refers to the Smoke Tree Ranch, the location of Walt’s vacation home in Palm Springs. Also, on Walt’s right hand is the Irish Claddagh wedding ring that he and his wife, Lillian, wore in addition to the ones on their left hand.
The statue possess the plaque that states “We believed in our idea – a family park where parents and children could have a fun – together. I believe Walt achieved his dream and beyond. So, thank you, Walt, for the legacy have left behind for everyone to enjoy. In the words of Mickey, see ya real soon.
Visit www.capturing-the-magic.com for a preview of the stunning coffee table book, Capturing the Magic and purchase your copy today.
- Happily Ever After Fireworks Dessert Party - 08/06/2017
- Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast Review - 07/21/2017
- 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Marketplaces - 07/12/2017
Recent Comments