Disney Spotlights Black Artists During ‘Celebrate Soulfully’ Initiative
Disney has long been a place where magic meets storytelling, and in recent years, they’ve made strides in highlighting Black culture through their Celebrate Soulfully initiative.
This event, held throughout the year but especially during Black History Month and Juneteenth, amplifies Black voices, artistry, and entrepreneurship across Walt Disney World, resorts, and shopping districts.
Recently, Disney celebrated Black History Month by inviting Black creators to Walt Disney World for a family reunion honoring Black heritage and culture through music, food, art, and entertainment. From captivating performances by Disney On Broadway artists like Alton Fitzgerald White, the stunning artwork on display by Black artists from around the nation, and character meet and greets with Princess Tiana, there’s so much Black excellence to enjoy for families at Disney.
In addition to the magic of the attractions, creators had the opportunity to bring their families and meet with PlanDisney panelists who offer one-on-one tips for planning your dream vacation. They also enjoyed time shopping at Disney Springs, catching an advanced screening of the Captain America: Brave New World movie starring Anthony Mackie, horseback riding and fishing at Disney’s Ft. Wilderness Resort, and a proper finale family reunion cookout at Disney’s Coronado Springs featuring savory bites and games of Spades.
“I think Walt Disney World is the ultimate place to create cherished memories. There is something for everyone, from grandparents, aunties, uncles, the kids; there’s just really something for everyone to enjoy,” said Angela B. Logan, Senior Manager, Multicultural Marketing Strategy at Disney.
The initiative kicked off at the top of the month with Emmy-winning talk show host Tamron Hall leading the parade down Magic Kingdom. Philadelphia Eagles star quarterback Jalen Hurts also visited with his family after his spectacular Super Bowl Win. And while Black History Month, of course, peaks the festivities, Walt Disney World’s Celebrate Soulfully initiative runs year-round, with a variety of deals and discounts available for families to enjoy.
“I just want to make sure that [everyone] knows that Black guests are welcome here at Walt Disney World. We want to make sure that a warm welcome is extended to everyone to experience the magic of Walt Disney World…Sometimes we want to have those cultural traditions where we do want to have a banquet, we do want to come and have our white party, and [Celebrate Soulfully] is the perfect example of how you can create those experiences and have a lasting memory with your family right here at Walt Disney World,” Logan added.
The highlight of the trip came when we connected with the Black artists being spotlighted at Walt Disney World. Located at the Disney Springs Art Walk and EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, the artwork by these artists is simply breathtaking and currently on display as a part of the park’s Celebrate Soulfully initiative. If you’re looking to support Black artists, here are 10 currently being spotlighted at Walt Disney World.
Ernest Shaw – Hearfelt Murals at Disney Springs
Renowned Baltimore muralist Ernest Shaw brings bold colors and striking imagery to the Disney Springs Art Walk. His work celebrates Black heritage and culture while offering visitors an immersive artistic experience that champions compassion and understanding.
Nneka Jones – Powerful Visual Storytelling
Trinidadian-born embroidery artist and activist Nneka Jones contributes her powerful, detailed artwork to the Disney Springs Art Walk. Her pieces tell stories of love, empowerment, and cultural pride, encouraging women and young girls to be fearless.
Nardstar – South African Street Art
Internationally celebrated South African street artist Nardstar has created installations at Disney Springs Art Walk. “The Voices in My Head” showcases her unique geometric style that has propelled her as a force in Africa’s growing urban art scene.
Marci Swett – Gullah Magic at Disney
Marcella Swett’s striking images honor her Gullah heritage and culture. She aims to educate people about the magic of the Gullah people while using elements of that heritage in her paintings, including seagrass baskets and rice grains that keep the Gullah traditions alive.
Brandon Hill – Black Cowboys
Brandon Hill is a Washington, D.C.-based artist best known for his exploration into the idea of heroism in American Society. His exhibition, Black Cowboy, offers more than 25 mixed medium works and sculptures, from two-dimensional acrylic paint on canvas to fiberglass sculptures, portraits, and his current installation at Disney Springs Art Walk.
Yesenia Moises – Whimsical Illustrator
Yesenia Moises is an author, illustrator, and toy designer. Her colorful illustrations and dreamy designs resonate with young readers. Moises is currently bringing her talent to EPCOT, and has previously worked with Serena Williams as an illustrator for the tennis legend’s series, “The Adventures of Qai Qai.”
Ryan Riller – Animated Paper Art
Ryan Riller is a Bay Area artist who specializes in animation and paper art. He has contributed extensively to Disney’s WonderGround Gallery, bringing his unique aesthetic to EPCOT’s festival.
Larissa Brown – Joyful Fine Artist
Larissa Brown is a painter whose work focuses on fine art, watercolor, and pop art prints. An
Illustrator, Cartoonist, and Educator, Brown’s work focuses on themes of joy and healing. Brown’s work is currently featured at Disney Parks and she has formerly worked as a Character Designer for Nickelodeon’s Rocket Power and Rugrats TV.
Mark Page – Creator of Disney Worlds
Mark Page is a creative designer, art director, illustrator, and storyteller. He started with a love of drawing when he was just five before honing his creative abilities across disciplines. Now, Page is a seasoned professional artist, working across animation, product design, and for the better part of his career, as a designer and Art Director for theme park attractions with Walt Disney Imagineering.
Beyond shopping and art, Disney’s Celebrate Soulfully event spotlights Black performers, musicians, and chefs across the parks. From soul food-inspired menus at EPCOT to live Caribbean performances at Animal Kingdom, Disney continues to create spaces where Black culture thrives.
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