Walt Disney Animation Studios is honoring the incredible female talent in art and animation with a special exhibition at the Animayo festival in Gran Canaria, Spain. The exhibition, titled “Whimsy & Wonder,” will be on display exclusively during the festival from May 7-10.
As an official sponsor of the festival, Disney will pay tribute to the female artists who have played a significant role in shaping Disney’s visual storytelling for over a century. From the pioneering work of Mary Blair in the 1950s to the visionary women behind modern classics like “Frozen,” “Encanto,” and “Moana 2,” the exhibition celebrates the past and future of animation.
Mary Blair, an iconic color stylist and art director, revolutionized Disney animation in the 1940s and ’50s with her imaginative use of vibrant colors and whimsical shapes. Her influence can still be seen in the studio’s style today.
“Whimsy & Wonder” will showcase the creative contributions of talented artists at Walt Disney Animation Studios, featuring works from films like “The Princess and the Frog” and the recent blockbuster “Moana 2.”
The exhibition will feature works by Mary Blair and six extraordinary female artists from Disney Animation Studios:
– Lorelay Bové (Spain/Andorra): Visual development artist on “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia,” and “Encanto.”
– Lisa Keene: Production designer and visual development artist on “Frozen” and classics like “Beauty and the Beast.”
– Brittney Lee: Production designer known for her iconic costume design in “Frozen.”
– Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay: Visual development artist on “Encanto” and “Moana.”
– Josie Trinidad: Emmy-winning director and head of story on “Zootopia.”
– Fawn Veerasunthorn: Director of “Wish” and head of story on “Raya and the Last Dragon.”
The exhibition will take place at the Centro de Iniciativas de La Fundación La Caja de Canarias, CICCA, and will be a highlight of the festival.
Animayo Gran Canaria 2025, founded by Damián Perea, will bring together over 40 speakers and special guests from prominent studios and academic institutions worldwide. The festival celebrates creativity and impact in the Canary Islands, a growing animation hub.
The collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios and Animayo is a testament to the festival’s reputation as Spain’s only Oscar-qualifying animation festival. The exhibition is a unique opportunity for attendees to be inspired by the incredible work of these talented female artists.
The festival is made possible by the support of various sponsors, including the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the La Caja de Canarias Foundation.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind exhibition celebrating the artistry and talent of women in animation at Animayo Gran Canaria 2025.
