Mary Blair

Book Review: The Art of the Disney Golden Books

5 September 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Zannaland readers are in for a treat, as I’ve finally recruited one of the utmost authorities on Disney books from fact to fiction, from comics to concept art – Scott Otis (or @otisney to some), to share his thoughts in the form of book reviews for us here. Maybe we’ll eventually get him to give us his top 41 Disney Books of All Time too! Please welcome him and enjoy his first review below:

There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on Treasure Island and at the bottom of the Spanish Main… and best of all, you can enjoy these riches every day of your life. — Walt Disney

Hello! My name is Scott and I love books, especially Disney books. So, I’ve decided to start reviewing some of them here. I have an extensive Disney library and hopefully I will be able to write many book reviews for you to enjoy here both from my existing collection and new releases, and hopefully it might influence you to expand your personal Disney library as well. Happy reading!

The Big Little (Golden) Book of Pictures – The Art of the Disney Golden Books by Charles Solomon

There were images in the Little Golden Books I was living in, in the backseat of our car on the way to the grocery store. I would dive in and live there, and it felt good. Even if I couldn’t read then — and I was looking at those books long before I could read — they contained amazing worlds. They were warm, inviting, and delicious. I loved them.

— Chris Sanders, Lilo & Stitch writer-director

When I saw that Disney was going to release a book about the history and the art of the Disney Golden Books, I was incredibly intrigued. Just when I thought Disney had written a book about every possible topic, here comes another one about something I had never even considered. I grew up reading Golden Books just like any other kid of my generation, I would assume. So, I remember fondly times in my childhood where my mother would read me shortened versions of some of Disney’s finest movies and stories through the Disney Golden Books. Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, the Uncle Remus Stories, Cinderella and Dumbo were some of the ones I remembered the most from my childhood.

Especially the gorgeous pictures and vibrant colors. They weren’t exactly like the scenes from the movies, but close enough, and beautiful in their own way. So, it comes as no surprise that the pictures and story art are the standout stars of this book. Its 160 pages are jam-packed with exquisite examples of some of the finest artwork put out by the Disney Studios and by some of its greatest artists.

Walt Disney’s favorite artist Mary Blair is well-represented here, as she should be. Her artwork stands out with its unique interpretations and bright colors. And it’s wonderful to see the dynamic work of such storied Disney legends as, John Hench, Bill Justice, Joe Grant, Bill Peet, Gustaf Tenggren, and Martin and Alice Provensen displayed on the book’s oversized pages.

Mary Blair, 1944. Note her take on Tinker Bell and the Darling children (9 years before the release of Peter Pan) and Lady (11 years before the release of Lady and the Tramp) and Mole (5 years before the release of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad)

The Art of the Disney Golden Books is spread through seven chapters: History, Art & Artists, Memories, Influences, Creations, Discoveries and Legacy. It begins with a history of Disney’s long, symbiotic relationship with the Golden Books and the companies that have published them. It then describes many of the Golden Books artists accompanied by fine examples of their work. The next few chapters include many stories and memories from the animation industry’s finest artists, as well as some of the artists that illustrate today’s Disney Golden Books.

Yes, it’s quite amazing that even today, Disney Golden Books are still being produced and subsequently loved by the newest generation of children. With the recent acquisition of Pixar, all of its wonderful stories are being interpreted into Little Golden Books. And all of Disney’s recent successes from Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph and the incredibly popular Frozen have become Little Golden books too. Overall, I very much enjoyed The Art of the Disney Golden Books. The writing was a little clunky and jumped from artist to artist with little transition, but it effectively told the story of Disney’s Golden Books, a story that I wasn’t previously aware of. And I’m very grateful for it. As I said, the art is the true star here and the book is worth getting just for that. The book is available now in stores and Disney Parks:

Have you all seen this book? What are your thoughts? Do you have a set of Disney Golden books for you or your children? I’d love to hear any stories you may have. And, if you have any recommendations for future book reviews, please let me know.

Disney’s California Grill Re-opens With a Delicious Flair

8 September 2013 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

A flair of Mary Blair that is. Cheap rhyme aside, I was so pleasantly surprised by the newly re-imagined California Grill, which pays tribute to the art and artistry of Disney Legend Mary Blair, famous for the Grand Canyon Concourse mosaics found within Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The color scheme on the upholstery, carpets, art and more all honor the original colors found when the Contemporary first opened. It is a wonderful mix of mid-century modern aesthetics, with sleek state-of-the art accompaniments found throughout the restaurant.

The now floor-to-ceiling windows offer even more incredible views than before, streaming in light from all around. On the night we arrived, a thunderstorm had just ended, providing an incredible rainbow right over the resort. When we got upstairs, we could see not only the gorgeous sunset but also the storm in the distance; an unrivaled panorama of Walt Disney World Resort scenery.

Mixed in with the regular tables and booths are now long tables which seat 10 over on one side of the restaurant. There is also seating at the bar, where a special sushi menu is offered for guests seated at that location. The private rooms are also still available as well and offer even more tributes to Mary Blair with reproductions of her artwork. I just can’t express enough how wonderful it is to see Mary Blair and her work in such a special location.

New color schemes at California Grill are a tribute to the original Contemporary Resort

The food we sampled was incredible, from the Pacific halibut with parsnip silk, roasted heirloom beets, arugula, macadamia vinaigrette and beet syrup, to updates of longtime favorites, such as Pork Two Ways, now grilled tenderloin and lacquered pork belly with goat cheese polenta and mushrooms – my favorite! The oak-fired filet of beef is served with heirloom tomato risotto, marinated baby vine tomatoes and basil was just perfect. Sonoma goat cheese ravioli returns in a tomato fennel broth with crispy shiitake mushrooms.

And don’t forget the sushi! The Grill’s popular sushi menu expands with a 12-course omakase menu that includes a tasting of the restaurant’s freshest ingredients (not just fish and seafood). Omakase means “to entrust,” and there’s no menu. “You just let the chef prepare fresh sushi dishes for you, perfect for sushi fans who want to try new tastes,” says Executive Chef Brian Piasecki. The menu might include ama ebi (sweet shrimp) tempura, lobster sashimi, crunchy Japanese bone marrow with sesame beef tartare and red onion marmalade, and spicy-crusted oysters.

I cannot wait to get back and try full-size portions of some of these, at which time I’ll offer a full review of my experience. The mix of side items and the presentation really live up to California Grill’s existing reputation – and surpass it. This will now be a must-visit for a special occasion dining experience, date night, or just a wonderful gourmet meal. While I love trying new things, I’m not a food reviewer, and certainly didn’t have the old California Grill menu memorized, so for a ‘first-timer’ so to speak, I was really satisfied and impressed with what I tried. Hopefully based on the photos below and descriptions of ingredients above, you can decide if the California Grill will work for you and your guests. Dessert descriptions are listed in the gallery below.

The wall of wine immediately catches your eye when you step off the elevator; 1600 bottles on display, with 250 wines on the list, 80 by the glass. There also are 10 varieties of sake, eight kinds of craft beers and ciders, and signature cocktails created just for California Grill, such as the sake martini, which I sampled and really enjoyed. I am not usually a fan of sake on its own, but this was a light, sweet, tropical drink and a great way to enjoy sake.

For more scenes from the new California Grill, see the gallery below, and click to enlarge any photos:

California Grill desserts — A sampling of the desserts – clockwise from top left, the lemon meringe, which was like a cheesecake consistency with a nice shortbread crust and hardened meringue topper, the strawberry basil sundae is part of the trio pictured below, then the chocolate pudding cake described a few photos down, the banana fritters with house-made marshmallow and caramel. This was really unique, like fried banana bread, dense and moist with a nice caramel complement, and the caramel corn pot is also part of the trio in the next photo.

Sunday Sampler — California Grill Sundae Sampler: caramel corn, Coca-Cola float, and strawberry and basil.(Jimmy DeFlippo, photographer)

Wishes from California Grill — Wishes from the California Grill viewing platform

The refurbished California Grill has instantly become my favorite new spot in all of Walt Disney World. Perfect views and ambiance, wonderful Mary Blair touches for Disney fans to appreciate, and wonderful food to complement the entire experience. Truly a jewel in the Walt Disney World crown. I hope to get back sooner than later! Speaking of, reservations are now available (if you can find any) to book at 407-WDW-DINE, online or using the My Disney Experience app.

What do you think of the new look?

Disclaimer: I was invited to preview the new California Grill and its food at a press event. I was not asked or required to post in any way and my opinions above are my own. It’s just THAT good!

Disney’s Classic Peter Pan Flies onto Blu-ray

15 February 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Peter Pan has always been one of my absolute favorite Disney films. The scenes over London, the first time we see Tinker Bell, the second star to the right, and the mermaid lagoon, all stand out in my mind as wonderful memories of this classic tale.

Now the movie is available on Blu-ray in pristine condition, with some pretty fun bonus features as well. One of my favorite parts is when you press the pause button on the movie, it goes to a special screen and the a little mini-scene comes up to entertain whomever is left watching while the screen is on pause.

Who doesn’t love this classic Tink scene?

I’m also a huge fan of Mary Blair and her amazing artwork, and the Peter Pan disc offers a great gallery of some of the Mary Blair concept art for Peter Pan:

This disc is a must-own for any Disney fan and the bonus features make it a fun, interactive learning experience for the whole family. The Peter Pan Diamond Edition is out on DVD, Blu-ray and combo pack with digital download now. There is also a Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD + Digital Copy + Storybook App

version available as well. My son is addicted to Disney Storybook apps and Peter Pan is no exception. Bring Peter Pan and the whole Never Land gang home to your family today!

NEW Disney LeSportsac It’s a Small World Bags-Spring 2013 Collection

30 January 2013 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

It may feel like winter will never end in some parts of the world, but Disney and LeSportsac are ready to infuse a little spring into your life with their latest designs for the Mary Blair-inspired collection. I wasn’t a huge fan of the winter designs, but they have won me over again with these whimsical colors and styles, this time paying homage to the country of Holland!

From LeSportsac’s blog: “…our carefree Dutch girls Saskia, Kalie and Brandie urge us to toss our devices and enjoy a sun-kissed afternoon on a bicycle! The Kalie Charm comes with the handkerchief-style print Well Wishes, as well as the embroidered placement tote Blooming Joy which features a Delft blue inspired needlepoint print brimming with bright pink daffodils and tulips.” Let’s see what’s in store for us:

Well Wishes print will be available in 14 styles: Rectangular Cosmetic, Travel Cosmetic , Kasey, Classic Hobo, Deluxe Everyday Bag, EveryGirl Tote, Medium Weekender, Large Weekender, Mini Basic Backpack, Basic Backpack, Small EveryGirl Tote, Deluxe Shoulder Satchel, Ryan Baby Bag, Lily Wallet.

More info from LeSportsac’s blog: “Adding to the Small World capsule is the latest installation of Mary Blair’s original artwork. See the World reworks the the world’s icons into a placement tote with beige and pastel contrasts, while our familiar geometric facade print continues with Global Journey in this color palette. Smaller styles in Global Journey include the Time To Share Double Coin Charm, while the larger styles and the See the World Tote come with the highly anticipated Multi Landmark Charm. It is sure to steal hearts all over!” I am pretty sure I need one of these styles!

Global Journey print will be available in 17 styles: Small Cleo Crossbody, Classic Hobo, Deluxe Everyday Bag, EveryGirl Tote, Medium Weekender, Large Weekender, Voyager Backpack , Carryall Tote, Basic Backpack, Small EveryGirl Tote, Deluxe Shoulder Satchel, Ryan Baby Bag, Jessi Baby Bag, Rectangular Cosmetic , Travel Cosmetic, Kasey, Lily Wallet.

“Share Your Dreams embroidery is a subtler beige and cream print, with small colorful embroidered impressions of the world’s icons sprinkled throughout and features cream tipped handles and straps. It includes the Share Your World Coin Charm on the larger styles, and the smaller styles come with the Time To Share Double Coin Charm.”

Share Your Dreams embroidery will be available in 8 styles: Classic Hobo, Deluxe Everyday Bag, EveryGirl Tote, Large Weekender, Small EveryGirl Tote, Deluxe Shoulder Satchel, Kasey, Small Cleo Crossbody.

New styles added to the Spring Disney It’s a Small World line-up include the Lily Wallet, Jessi Baby Bag, Basic Backpack, Small EveryGirl Tote, Medium Weekender, Deluxe Shoulder Satchel, and Carryall Tote.

Okay, maybe I need that one too, Love that charm too!

Which is your favorite design? I think they Spring 2013 collection will be a great success! Disney LeSportsac designs are available online and in select Disney Parks merchandise locations and the Spring collection will be out in February. Happy shopping!

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London Collection

27 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

LeSportsac’s collaboration with Disney, using Mary Blair-inspired designs under the “it’s a small world” moniker, is quickly gaining popularity just like the Disney Dooney & Bourke collection has done for the past few years. With the success of the initial summer Disney LeSportsac line, the Fall and Winter line started appearing in Disney parks as well as being available for purchase online.

I was recently in TrenD at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney Marketplace, and saw many of the new Winter London collection for sale:

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London — Everyday bag with charm – $98

Keep an eye out for more of these cute designs showing up at a Disney park near you!

Disney’s It’s A Small World LeSportsac Mary Blair Artwork Giveaways

17 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

The popular partnership with LeSportsac and Disney and their adorable Mary Blair-inspired designs is now giving fans of the bags a chance to win a limited edition reproduction of the artwork that inspired the bag designs. The catch is these giveaways are only happening in the LeSportsac boutiques in New York and Las Vegas. I’ve never wanted to live in New York City or Vegas more than I do right now!

The three NYC area boutiques will be giving away different prints at each store – the Madison Avenue store will be giving away one of each of the three designs, the SoHo store will be giving away one “Castle Facade” artwork and Fashion Show in Vegas will be giving away one “Magic Facade” artwork. You can enter to win from November 19-24.

You can see the designs in this giveaway promo from LeSportsac:

If you notice the text on the bottom right, it looks like they’ll be doing a giveaway online soon too, so stay tuned!

Sneak Peek: LeSportsac New FALL Small World Designs

21 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

We mentioned in the last LeSportsac post featuring the “it’s a small world” line of bags and accessories inspired by Mary Blair, that there would be seasonal designs coming out throughout the year. LeSportsac has just released the first image of its Fall 2012 line for the Small World designs. They are theming these styles to a “Wondrous Journey under the Moroccan Sun”. Let’s see the sneak peek below:

LeSportsac Fall Small World line — Can’t wait to see more of the Fall line! (click to enlarge – ©LeSportsac)

For now, you can order LeSportsac Small World designs online at LeSportsac.com/smallworld but I am hearing they are in Disney Parks as well, so I will keep you posted. The Fall 2012 line will be released in August.

Mary Blair Inspired Disney Small World LeSportsac Purses

25 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Mary Blair Le Sportsac Small World Tahitian — The “Tahitian Dreams” in the Casey style bag – $48

I recently saw the LeSportsac Disney It’s a Small World collection of handbags and accessories and when I saw one of the designs, I fell in love. I ordered one for my upcoming trip to Disneyland in August and it arrived today so I thought I’d post about all the current designs. The collection will be releasing five sets of designs, seasonally, but I couldn’t resist the redheaded mermaid charm that comes on the Tahitian design. Here’s the official press release from Disney Consumer Products below – and you can see the rest of the available designs and purchase them at LeSportsac.com :

LeSportsac and Disney Consumer Products launched the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection about a month ago, featuring handbags, totes and accessories that combine the bright aesthetic of LeSportsac with inspiration from the mid-century artwork of Disney artist Mary Blair who created the whimsical look of the beloved Disney theme park attraction “it’s a small world.”

Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection includes five seasonal deliveries, each inspired by a specific country. In addition to celebrating a country, each delivery will be anchored with a Signature Tote and a colorful print that pays tribute to the unique facades and architectural works of Disney’s “it’s a small world” Theme park attraction. The collection kicks off with a celebration of Tahiti that includes two graphic totes and a range of 12 styles in two vibrant prints.

“We are so inspired by Blair’s original art and the “it’s a small world” theme of global awareness,” said D’Arcy Jensen, Vice President, Global Creative Director, LeSportsac. “Each collectible design we are creating is a colorful narrative that is sure to delight fans of Disney, Mary Blair and LeSportsac alike.”

The “it’s a small world” attraction, which debuted at the New York World’s Fair in 1964, was created by Walt Disney both as a salute to UNICEF and his belief that everyone is united in their love of children and dreams of a better tomorrow. In keeping with the original philanthropic message of “it’s a small world,” Disney will make a donation to UNICEF in honor of “it’s a small world” and all product in the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection will include a special hangtag sharing the history of the original attraction and the connection to UNICEF.

“Our collaboration with LeSportsac pays homage to the magical experience of “it’s a small world” while continuing the legacy of the message behind one of Disney’s most beloved theme park attractions,” said Robert Oberschelp, director, Disney Collections, DCP. “Walt Disney’s vision is as powerful and true today as it was when he first shared it with the world.”

The Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac Collection is available online at LeSportsac.com and at all LeSportsac flagship boutiques worldwide. LeSportsac is also available at better department stores and select specialty stores.