Can you name a more recognizable icon or brand ambassador from the 20th Century than Mickey Mouse? Even in the farthest reaches of the globe, Mickey is synonymous with Disney, and most importantly, his creator, Walt Disney. In homage to such acclaim and worldwide appeal, there probably hasn't been a figure more reimagined than this Mouse, who inspired countless animators at Disney, as well as fine artists throughout the good part of the last 90 years, to incorporate him and his critter cohorts into their creative output. Mickey Mouse is soundly entrenched in our cultural heritage.
Through January 6, 2020 the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco presents Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World, an exhibition that "chronicles Mickey's influence on art and entertainment over the past nine decades and tells the story of his origin, rise to fame, and enduring worldwide appeal, in relation to Walt Disney's inspiring, parallel story." Not only does the exhibition touch on the original drawings of Mickey from the late 1920s, but it illustrates how Mickey himself grew into the symbol of the Disney story, from Musketeers to films, Disneyland to collectible merchandise items. The rise of American influence, from the 1930s into the latter part of the century, seems to be embodied in Walt's creation, and this exhibition shows that parallel story in intricate pencil, photography, color posters, and more.
Another highlight of Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World is the expansive interpretations of artists working outside of the Disney studios. Artists like Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, Gottfried Helnwein, and Wayne Thiebaud, alongside contemporary works by Tennessee Loveless, Lorelay Bove, Eric Robison and Sirron Norris all have Mickey works on display, and regardless of style, emblematic Mickey is front and center. Hirst's work, using simple shapes and abstraction, is particularly illuminating, demonstrating just how entrenched Mickey's likeness truly is.
In an upcoming issue of Juxtapoz's print edition, we take a deeper look at this exhibition. For now, take a look at the gallery above for views of the show.