Saturday, July 01, 2006

Disneyland Concept Art, 1954



Here’s a way cool shot of Peter Ellenshaw, matte artist supreme, working on the concept painting of Disneyland that was introduced by Walt on the “Disneyland” TV Show (which helped pay for the park). Although there were a number of changes (such as the huge fortress wall around the castle and Fantasyland area), it is just as interesting to notice how much actually stayed the same. Thanks again to Matterhorn for identifying Ellenshaw for me.

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6 comments:

Matterhorn1959 said...

That artist happens to be Pete Ellenshaw and the map he is painting can be seen in the first Disneyland postcard as Walt is standing in front of the map. The painting is on a cork wall board used for storyboards. During story presentations artists would pin up the art on the board. A copy of this painting can currently be seen at the Oakland Museum's Disneyland display.

Daveland said...

I should have known that one; I love Ellenshaw’s matte work. His paintings are incredible. Herb Ryman did the initial concept art though, right? Is there some reason he didn’t do the one that was shown on television?

Major Pepperidge said...

Wow, another photo that is absolutely amazing! This one is definitely book-worthy.

Major Pepperidge said...

Dave, I forgot to add...thanks for sharing these fantastic photos.

Daveland said...

Thanks to you, Matterhorn, and Tangaroa for always leaving great comments and adding the cool info that goes with the stories. We should all collaborate with our collections and do a book. Any takers?

Matterhorn1959 said...

I think that Herb was busy with other parts of the park. I know the Dave Mumford and Bruce Gordon did a book Ellenshaw on Glass that may discuss this painting and why Ellenshaw was chosen for it. By the way, all the lights were painted with flourescent paint and would glow in the dark to give the map a look like it was night.