Episode Transcript
[00:00:00] Speaker A: Foreign.
[00:00:20] Speaker B: Which I think, again, super, super cool. You mentioned the Four Seasons. Let's dive a little bit about that. What is it that you have there or have done there? What does that mean for you? What was that stepping stone too? Because that's. You had that before Disney Springs. So anyways, run with it.
[00:00:41] Speaker A: Okay, so the story goes. So Four Seasons. I was in one of the stores in, I want to say, maybe November of 2022.
Yeah, somewhere around then. And I noticed that they didn't have any Disney art in the hotel. And so I sort of just started speaking with them. And, you know, I was like, hey, like, you know, would you guys ever consider having Disney art in here? You know, I don't know what any of that was like. And they connected me with the buyer for the retail stores there. I started talking with her, and we just talked more and more about what that could look like. And so it happened very progressive.
It was a very progressive process because we started out with, like, I did, like, two pieces and I was there for like, one day. And then that was a super successful, like, pop up that I did there. And so then they invited me to do, like, basically like a month there in July of 2023, which was like, all inspired by my art. And so, like, the food and beverage team got in on it and so they made like, a menu that was available at Lobby Bar, which was really cool. And there was like an ice cream cone at Lickety Split at Four Seasons that was available. That was inspired by my art. And then I painted two pieces that were displayed in the lobby for the month of July. And so as that relationship has grown and have a great relationship with the retail team that we've sort of like, just figured out, like, what we can create together. And then since then, we've been able to do, like, events. My work is, like, on one of the walls right outside of the store wardrobe there. And they sell my prints. And they have prints that are exclusive to just the resort because they're pieces that were inspired by the resort. So it's like Mickey and the Lazy river there and a piece called Palm Pathway, which is Mickey and Minnie, and they're in their outfits that they greet guests in at Goofy's breakfast there. So that was really cool. And it's like underneath the palm pathway at the resort. So that is like the most incredible partnership that I'm so lucky to have and like, to have my work featured at Four Seasons, which is like, I don't know, to me, it doesn't get better than Four Seasons. So I think that that is, like, the coolest thing ever. And just every time I walk in there and just see my work, it's like. It's like a pinch me kind of thing. You know, it's like, it's crazy to see my signature and my name associated with anything Four Seasons. But they're just, like, the best team. Like, I can't say enough great things about them. Like, they're all super creative, and they want things to be successful, and they put a lot of effort in. And I think most importantly, they care about the guests. And so that's really evident in everything that they do is, like, they care about the people that are going and staying there, you know, maybe even just shopping there. And everything is really guest focused, which is super important to me. So, yeah, that's how it's definitely evolved. It's like, it's been a. It's been a long, like, you know, it's definitely been, like, trial and not so much error, just, like, seeing what works and then just adjusting and doing more and more of that, and it keeps getting bigger, which is incredible.
[00:03:46] Speaker B: So, yeah, I'd almost say that. Sorry, Brooks, did you have to say something?
[00:03:52] Speaker A: No.
[00:03:52] Speaker B: Okay. Sorry. What I've seen from your artwork there, it's very luxurious. Like, it does have this different. Same. Same, but different style. Very fitting to the Four Seasons, But I think it's just fantastic that you were able to, you know, find this gap and fill it basically within that realm of luxury with the Four Seasons. So congratulations on that. Well deserved.
[00:04:17] Speaker A: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[00:04:19] Speaker B: Of course, I also want to just piggyback on that and talk about now being at Disney Springs. So, you know, you love being at the Four Seasons, but Disney Springs is also pretty fairly new for you. How's that been? What does that. How does that make you feel that you're being recognized and, you know, I guess, to an extent, being offered these fantastic opportunities because of your success.
[00:04:42] Speaker A: It's crazy.
It's like you walk into a store where, like, you. You. Like. I went as a kid and, like, saw other work and was like, I hope that I can be in here one day. And then, you know, I'm standing there, and it. It's like history is sort of, I guess, repeating itself, because the kid that I'm talking to could have their art showcase there one day. Is, you know, it's. It's really, really cool. It's like a surreal.
[00:05:10] Speaker B: I think that's the word you're looking for.
[00:05:12] Speaker A: Surreal. Yeah. Yeah. And especially because the Disney Springs Art walk was sort of like, that happened. I. I was able to create a piece for that art walk in. I think it was 2021. 2. 2022. Somewhere around there that I did that. But it wasn't like there. There wasn't any thing for sale of.
[00:05:36] Speaker B: Mine, Disney Springs, that was very nuanced, like, very early on, I should say.
[00:05:42] Speaker A: So that was a question that I got. A lot was like, oh, I see that your artwork is featured at Disney Springs. Can I also purchase your artwork at Disney Springs? And I would always say no, but now that it's like, physically there is really cool. It's like having art that's also like, you know, there's obviously a range of costs to art, right? So you have like, original pieces, which is definitely at the top of the spectrum. And then you have prints. And I think that, like, the prints that I do, the prints on paper are super important to. To me and my art and the people that enjoy my art because it's. It's like a lower price thing that, you know, not everybody can spend hundreds and hundreds or thousands of dollars on art. And so I think it's really. It's like, it's fun because it's like they're smaller pieces, they're attainable, they're easy to transport. Like, you know, you can't fit a humongous piece of art in your suitcase, but you can fit a paper print in your suitcase that's like, you know, this big. So, yeah, it's. It's really important for me to have those P there too, and to have super fun things like that. So it just. Yeah, really cool.
[00:06:40] Speaker B: Well, I personally agree because, you know, I have these artworks that aren't original per se, but they mean everything to me and it's within the budget that I can for now, be able to purchase. So the fact that you're able to accommodate to all the different levels and reach your fan base of every level, I think that really is important.
You know, that's all I got to say about that.
[00:07:06] Speaker C: Well, and kind of on that, you know, your work, you know, each piece has a distinctive energy to it and, you know, like, it. It tells a story, and it's like a different story with each. At least this is what I get from it. And I. I love art. So when I'm looking at art, I. I kind of want to see more in depth other than just, you know, throwing some paint on a canvas because, like, Steph, I am not artistically inclined. So it's just not, you know, like that. But I have a question. I was thinking about this. Like, if you had. And I wrote it down, but if one of your artworks could come to life and speak, what do you think it would say? Not to put you on the scene. Like, it's. You know.
[00:07:54] Speaker A: That's a great question.
[00:07:55] Speaker C: Yeah, it's.
[00:07:58] Speaker A: Well, I think it definitely depends on the character. Right?
[00:08:01] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:08:02] Speaker A: I don't know. I think it's. I hate giving an answer like this, but I really think it depends on the piece and the character and, like, what they're depicted doing in that piece. I don't know.
[00:08:13] Speaker D: Like, I would love to. I would love to hear what dignified duck would say if he came to life.
[00:08:19] Speaker A: Yeah, Like. Like Donald with his crown on.
[00:08:22] Speaker B: Oh, you got goofy with the one. Goofy with, like, the purple background.
[00:08:26] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:08:27] Speaker B: That's gorgeous.
[00:08:28] Speaker A: Yeah. Thank you.
[00:08:29] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:08:30] Speaker B: I'm sorry. That's all I could do.
[00:08:33] Speaker A: That's good.
[00:08:34] Speaker B: That's what I imagine. Also another gorgeous piece.
[00:08:38] Speaker A: Thank you. I don't know. I feel like it would. I would just want them to say, I guess whatever is as true to.
That's.
[00:08:48] Speaker B: So they're iconic lines.
[00:08:50] Speaker A: That's a really tough question.
[00:08:51] Speaker C: Like, you know, a hard question.
[00:08:55] Speaker B: You got this question. Got the trivia. Which one's worse?
[00:08:59] Speaker C: I think at this rate, he might go with the trivia.
[00:09:02] Speaker A: The trivia might be a little bit easier, even though I'm still definitely don't know the answer for that.
[00:09:07] Speaker B: Okay.
[00:09:07] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:09:07] Speaker B: I have another question that might be a little bit easier if.
[00:09:11] Speaker A: Well, think about it.
Why I'm having so much trouble is, like, I immediately think of, like, a Maleficent piece. And, like, Maleficent wouldn't have anything nice to say, probably, but I wouldn't want her to have anything nice.
[00:09:24] Speaker C: Everyone would really love to know what Maleficent would say.
[00:09:26] Speaker A: Right, Right. But. But I wouldn't want her to say anything nice because that would be so not true to her. So it's. It's hard for me to. I.
I think. Yeah. I think as. I want the character to look as true to you.
[00:09:40] Speaker B: Justice.
[00:09:40] Speaker A: Yeah. Yeah, yeah.
[00:09:42] Speaker B: You just inspired him.
[00:09:44] Speaker A: Yeah. Really thinking about it.
[00:09:46] Speaker B: Think about what they're gonna say in his next piece, and you'll be like, darn it, Jen.
[00:09:50] Speaker C: Or he's gonna run away screaming and.
[00:09:52] Speaker A: Be like, nope, I might have nightmares about them coming to life.
[00:09:56] Speaker D: And just don't be painting Chernobyl right before.
[00:10:01] Speaker C: There might be, like, a. A whole new line of artwork coming.
[00:10:06] Speaker A: Have any of you read the Kingdom Keepers books?
[00:10:09] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:10:11] Speaker A: Okay. So that was like, I was never a reader as a kid. And like those books, like the first one I read our teacher write to us in like I think fifth grade. And I was like obsessed with them ever since then. And I think I've read every one up until when they did like the. The reboot series.
[00:10:30] Speaker D: I just got the first book of the reboot series I'm about to start.
[00:10:34] Speaker A: Have you started it? Is it good? Oh, you haven't started.
[00:10:36] Speaker D: I haven't started it yet. So I'm finishing up another book series now and which I'm on book two of that and it's a three book series. So after that I'm going to start the inheritance. And I've pitched this ever since season one that to do an episode on that series because two, the bits of trivia of Disney trivia and knowledge that I've thrown in there because of how the author worked with Disney and imagineers and everything. And it makes me scared every time I go on It's a Small World. If you've read the books.
[00:11:11] Speaker A: Yeah, yeah.
[00:11:13] Speaker D: Like I look at all those little children, I'm like, oh, no.
[00:11:17] Speaker A: Yeah, they're all coming to life after the parks close.
[00:11:20] Speaker B: And the clowns. Have you guys seen the clowns on It's a Small World? Because they're the creepiest things ever.
[00:11:27] Speaker D: The hippo.
[00:11:29] Speaker B: I'll accept the hippo with the lazy eye. The clown.
[00:11:33] Speaker A: The hippo's cute. The clowns are a little creepy.
[00:11:36] Speaker C: I love the hippo.
[00:11:37] Speaker D: I will say. I will say. I just. We took our two year old on it on our last trip and she was in awe the whole time. She was just like super quiet.
[00:11:46] Speaker B: Just to be that age again, discovering Disney for the first time. Well, almost the first time. Okay, I've got a question.
[00:11:53] Speaker A: Yes.
[00:11:54] Speaker B: What has been your most popular piece so far? Can I guess then you can tell me the answer?
[00:12:00] Speaker A: Well, I don't. What are the. What's the criteria for popular?
[00:12:05] Speaker B: I guess the one that sold the most at least like print wise. But then again, if it's original, I don't know how that wood category.
[00:12:13] Speaker A: What's your. What's your.
[00:12:15] Speaker B: My guess was the Mickey running with the ice cream cone. The mint ice cream cone.
[00:12:21] Speaker A: The one. Are you talking about the one with the pink background?
[00:12:24] Speaker B: Yes.
[00:12:25] Speaker A: Okay. He doesn't have an ice cream cone in his hand. He is running.
[00:12:29] Speaker B: What? Oh, okay, sorry. Then I'm.
[00:12:31] Speaker A: There is another one. Yes. Because there is another one with him holding ice cream.
[00:12:35] Speaker B: Gotcha. Okay. The one with him Running then with the pink background. You had him at the festival.
[00:12:39] Speaker A: Yes, yes. That's called what's Burning. That one, to my knowledge, is definitely popular, but the issue is that what's most popular are the paper prints and not all of those pieces have been printed on paper.
[00:12:54] Speaker B: Gotcha.
[00:12:54] Speaker A: But as far as the paper prints, may the source, which is not the official name, I think the official name is the Sorcerer's Apprentice is the one that you have behind you. Yes, that was the most popular paper print because the way we did that was like, it was an addition of just as many sold in that 24 hour period.
And I think the edition size was like 390 something.
So 390 people bought that piece in one day and then no more were made after that.
So I think that was. Yeah, so it's like, it's confusing because there's like so much, so many different like, pieces of information that like, you know, would go into something. But that, that piece was very, very popular. And I think definitely it was because in part the filter that. The interactive Instagram filter, that was really cool. Also the fact that it's Sorcerer Mickey and a lot of people love Sorcerer Mickey, which.
[00:13:52] Speaker B: Yes, but you had like a different take on Sorcerer Mickey. Because I've seen plenty of Sorcerer Mickey artwork. Who does, you know, really, who doesn't like Sorcerer Mickey, but they're all very much the same.
[00:14:05] Speaker A: Yeah, very similar.
[00:14:07] Speaker B: Yeah. And I like. I mean, you. There's just a lot I could say. It's beautiful. I'm not gonna even open that can of warm. Yeah, okay, that makes sense. I understand why, you know, it could vary, you know, depending on what criteria we're talking about.
[00:14:24] Speaker D: Well, I have one real quick.
[00:14:26] Speaker B: Go for it.
[00:14:28] Speaker D: Do you have a piece that kind of means the most to you?
[00:14:34] Speaker B: Good question.
[00:14:34] Speaker D: Or like, or at least some pieces that, you know, maybe not as well known, but, you know, really have a special place in your heart.
[00:14:45] Speaker A: Yes. The one 28, that's the other one that you have behind you. The Steva. Oily one. That piece. I started painting in New York like years ago and I finished it after I moved to Florida. That like I. That came with me when I moved to Florida or like shortly after it was sent down. And then I finished it here and I sort of like gave it a little bit of a facelift and added more to it. And then it became like an official, like one of my first pieces with Disney finally. So the fact that I started that like, I'm from New York, so I started that in New York, it was really cool, but that sort of, like, came with me, and so that's probably the most meaningful and, like, just because it's been part of my life for a little bit. So, yeah, just that one, I think, by default would be the most meaningful to me.
[00:15:32] Speaker D: Okay.
[00:15:32] Speaker B: I've got great artwork. Taste.
[00:15:34] Speaker A: Yeah, you do. You do. For sure.
Yeah. And the ticket ones are really cute. I love the ticket ones. Those are, like. I tried to do something, like, a little bit different. I wanted to do something that was, like, super fun, and I had the ticket idea, and I knew that, like, I wanted to do something like Mickey and Donald. So. Yeah.
[00:15:51] Speaker B: And they're my favorite colors. Everything that I own is blue and green. Mostly green, but blue and green and. No, it's just. Oh, I love. Again, I could talk about it for hours, how much I love it. Anyways. Great question, Brooks. Jen, do you have another question?
[00:16:06] Speaker C: I'm afraid to ask one now.
[00:16:08] Speaker A: Oh, no, no.
[00:16:10] Speaker C: So have you ever had a moment where a fan's reaction has, like, really stood out to you? So I know we talked about some interactions, but, like, has there been one that's just really, like, oh, wow.
[00:16:23] Speaker A: Yes. But.
[00:16:24] Speaker B: Stomped him again.
[00:16:26] Speaker C: I did. I'm just gonna stop.
[00:16:28] Speaker A: Yes. I would say one time someone came up to me and brought, like. I think he was visiting from another country, and I guess he had flown in to the States and had driven to meet me a few hours away with his aunt. And as he was leaving, he handed me a note. And the note basically said that where he's from, it's not really acceptable for him to be gay. He just admires that I've, like, been able to live my life open and, like, be who I am and be happy with who I am, and that's really inspired him. And he doesn't know when he'll ever be able to be who he really is and to live his life as, you know, who he identifies as. So he just basically, the note was just saying that, you know, I really inspired him and that he hopes one day that he can get there, but he doesn't know, and he just wanted to thank me. And that was probably, like, the most meaningful interaction that has stood out. I mean, that's, like, beyond any art, too. It's like. It was just. Yeah, I still have the note somewhere.
[00:17:28] Speaker C: It's.
[00:17:28] Speaker A: It's like. I definitely cried a little bit. It was very emotional.
[00:17:32] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:17:32] Speaker B: Yeah. I might cry. I might cry.
[00:17:35] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:17:35] Speaker A: I.
Yeah.
[00:17:37] Speaker B: Thank you for sharing that.
[00:17:38] Speaker A: Of course. Yeah. It's Like, I feel comfortable sharing that because I think it's always, you know, hope maybe somebody will hear it and that'll inspire them. I mean, you know. Yeah, that's how this stuff works.
[00:17:49] Speaker B: Yeah. Disney magic. It's just amazing. I love it. Brooks, you have another question? If not, I'm gonna shimmy on over to the rapid fire questions before we start wrapping up.
[00:18:00] Speaker D: No less shimmy and shimmy away.
[00:18:02] Speaker B: Okay. All right, we'll do some fun rapid fire questions. And then after that, for those that are still listening, we're just gonna ask Dom, you know, how you can support his artwork, where you can purchase and, you know, will you. Where you can find him in the near future, hopefully. So, favorite Disney character to draw.
[00:18:24] Speaker A: Mickey.
[00:18:26] Speaker B: I should have guessed.
[00:18:28] Speaker A: Such a. I know it's a very. It's a basic answer, but it's just. I just love it.
[00:18:32] Speaker B: It's not basic. It's the man. It's the mouse.
[00:18:35] Speaker C: It is the mouse.
[00:18:37] Speaker A: You got to pay respects. You do.
[00:18:39] Speaker B: Absolutely.
[00:18:40] Speaker C: Favorite Disney attraction of all time.
[00:18:44] Speaker A: God. Okay. I would say pirates, but I don't know if that's my real answer. That's just my rapid. If I have to come up with an answer quick. Pirates of the. Is it Caribbean or Caribbean.
[00:18:54] Speaker B: How do you say Caribbean?
[00:18:56] Speaker C: I say Caribbean.
[00:18:58] Speaker A: Yeah, I think I say depending on the day. I don't know which one.
[00:19:01] Speaker C: Just whatever comes up, it's acceptable either way.
[00:19:03] Speaker B: Yes. Yes.
[00:19:05] Speaker A: I would take out Wishes. Fireworks show is like, my all time favorite thing ever.
[00:19:10] Speaker B: If Kelvin was here, that's his favorite.
[00:19:14] Speaker A: Nothing is sacred to me anymore since that show has gone away. Like, I have no attachment to anything honestly, at all anymore ever since that show has been.
[00:19:23] Speaker D: Because that was just not even happily ever after.
[00:19:26] Speaker A: No. I'm sorry. It just doesn't do it for me.
[00:19:28] Speaker C: Fantasmic.
[00:19:29] Speaker A: I love Fantasmic.
If I could. Sorry, this is. This is the thing.
[00:19:35] Speaker D: If I have my own sappy story with Happy ever after. But wishes is also very, very important to me too.
[00:19:42] Speaker A: The thing is, is, like, wishes, like, it didn't matter where I was. I would just want to stop whatever I was doing to watch it, like, wherever I was in the park. Like, Happily ever after. I'm like, okay, it's happening. It's also half of my issue with Happily ever after is it's a little long and then my neck hurts and I'm like, okay, if we can just condense this a little bit. I've been standing here for, like, 17 minutes. Wishes was like 11. It was perfect. Perfect time. This Is a little bit too strenuous on my neck.
[00:20:13] Speaker D: But see, if you go to. If you go to the railroad station, you don't have to look all the way up. You can have more of a.
[00:20:21] Speaker B: Not always open, Bruggs. It's not always open. I know, I know. It's the best spot. But if Kelton was here, he absolutely loves. We all love wishes. He loves wishes.
[00:20:33] Speaker A: I just feel like it told a story without the projection, and you got it and it was. It made sense. And it was short and it was concise and it was like, okay, here we go. We're starting. Here's the middle, here's the end. We're done. It was just nice and boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. And then on your way. But fantasmic. I love Fantasmic. If I could transport out of there, like a show ends, I'm like, in the parking lot or not dealing with that crowd. Yes. But since that's not an option, is a very big deterrent for me to go and watch it. It's just. It's very overstimulating to leave that stadium, whatever the arena, whatever it's called.
[00:21:10] Speaker B: It is. No, it's definitely. It definitely is.
[00:21:13] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:21:13] Speaker B: I can't disagree.
[00:21:14] Speaker C: As a former cast member for that attraction.
Fully agree. It wasn't fun to work either. It's just like in that capacity with, you know, when the theater dumps, it's not pretty.
[00:21:27] Speaker A: It's like, I'm excited. He's up there, he's down here, he's on the boat, He's. Everything's great. And then it ends. And then I just want it like.
[00:21:35] Speaker B: No, here's a thought for you. Food for thought. You love wishes. One of my favorite parts. And I'm gonna. I'm gonna guess you might probably like it, too. Was Jiminy Cricket. His little speech. You should look into doing a Jiminy Cricket artwork. I think you would do Jiminy. You would do Jiminy justice.
[00:21:55] Speaker A: Just saying. A very close friend of mine, it was just her birthday, and I bought her a little Erebus Jiminy figurine. And I don't. I didn't know that she likes Jiminy. I just saw it and I thought of her and I was like, this. But that made me. I was like, oh, I need to paint Jiminy. I need to. Yes, for sure.
[00:22:15] Speaker B: Now you got a second connection in there.
[00:22:17] Speaker A: Yeah. Yes. Yes. Yeah.
[00:22:20] Speaker B: Brooks, you want to ask him a rapid fire question?
[00:22:23] Speaker D: Yes. So, I mean, we talked about if you could do a collab with any artists, and we talked about Denise earlier, but if you could do any dream Disney collaboration, say if you can design something for any park movie or a piece of merch, what would it be?
[00:22:41] Speaker A: I would say I would love to do collaboration of, like, a Disney collaboration with a luxury brand. Like, if Disney ever, like, did like a Louis Vuitton collab and then I did the art for that, I would die. I would just. Or like Hermes. Like that. Yeah, like. Like they did like the Gucci collection a few years ago. And I don't think that there was a specific artist that sort of was like the design that stuff, but they do that a lot with, like, the collaborations with, like, brands or like, watches and stuff. Like, a lot of the times you'll see, like an artist's name. So, like, I would love to do that with, like, a luxury brand that I respect because, like, the Gucci stuff was basically the world stopped and I. I bought everything.
I was like. I didn't even know what to do with myself when that happened.
I actually, I was. I was slightly bamboozled, actually, because I was so excited that I went to the. The store, talked to the sales associate, and she was like, all this stuff is going to sell out. She's like, I have a preview of everything if you want to see it, but, like, you need to order now because it's going to be gone. And I was like, oh, God. Okay. So I, like, went through and I ordered and I got like my mom something for Christmas and I got myself shoes and I got.
And then everything went to the outlets anyway, so if I would have just waited and didn't listen to her trying to sell me hard on this stuff, I would have been able to get it for half price, Which I also did get stuff for half price that I didn't buy at full price. But anyway, way. Yeah, so.
[00:24:12] Speaker B: Yeah, well, hopefully that's in your future too.
[00:24:16] Speaker A: Yeah, that would. That would be a lot of fun.
[00:24:17] Speaker B: I think we would die.
[00:24:19] Speaker A: Yeah, it was just.
That would be the coolest thing.
[00:24:23] Speaker C: So if that's going to happen, can we get a heads up so we can start a fund?
[00:24:28] Speaker A: Yes.
[00:24:29] Speaker B: I'm just saying what she said. Yes, we'll support the cause sometime in advance.
[00:24:37] Speaker A: Yes. Yes, for sure.
[00:24:39] Speaker B: Okay, so if you could live in any Disney resort for a month, which one would you choose and why? Is it the Four Seasons?
[00:24:47] Speaker A: No, actually I would say the Grand Floridian because I love the aesthetic and I stayed there growing up, so I have, like, a connection to it. But we would always come, like, super late in the day which I never understood. And then I, like, as an only child, I sort of started planning the vacations at some point, which was super not fun. Looking back on it, I wish I, like, didn't get involved as long as I could, but I'm like, why are we wasting a whole day getting here at night?
So if I could just get back all those days that we came and missed the full first day, that would be my month.
I would just remember, like, getting to Orlando and it'd be like 9:00 and I'm like, whose idea was this?
I'm missing a whole Disney day. Why? Who, who, who thought this was a good idea to just like, you know, I get like traveling at like, you know, a nice like 3 or 4pm flight because nobody wants to wake up early, but that's not fun for me. And then leaving in the morning, you're missing two days.
[00:25:50] Speaker C: I feel this in my soul. Feel this in my soul.
[00:25:54] Speaker A: I just, it was like, I look back and I'm like, I, I just can't even believe I, I, I is. Yeah, I just don't.
What a waste. Yeah, I just, I just, I just, like, I'm so frustrated for my younger self. Just.
[00:26:11] Speaker B: Hysterical. But I, it could have been extra point even if you went to Disney Springs or just hung out by the pool or seen the fireworks from the Grand Floridian.
[00:26:20] Speaker A: No, I was super, I was definitely super annoying as a kid because I would like, I was not the kid to like, enjoy spending time at the resort. I like, was stressed that I wasn't in the park.
They were like, oh, let's do a pool day. And I'm like, I'm missing, I'm missing a park day for this. Like, I can't, I can't be okay with this.
[00:26:40] Speaker B: Facts.
[00:26:41] Speaker D: I have a confession.
[00:26:43] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:26:43] Speaker D: So I have been to Disney ever since I was, I first went when I was 18 and then like, I've gone several times with my wife and our daughter since then. I have never once been in a Disney pool because my whole time, my whole time is. I want to be in a.
[00:27:02] Speaker B: He supports this message.
[00:27:05] Speaker D: My daughter has been in the Disney pool before. I have.
[00:27:08] Speaker A: Yeah, I think that's okay.
[00:27:10] Speaker C: I was not a pool person until a few, until a few years ago. I was, look, if we are going there, we are going to be in the parks, open to close, rope drop to after fireworks. We're getting every minute in and correct.
[00:27:26] Speaker B: Yeah, you're gonna walk through those blisters.
[00:27:29] Speaker C: You're gonna suck it up. You're on vacation.
[00:27:32] Speaker D: I've had to throw away shoes and get new ones because I packed incorrectly.
[00:27:38] Speaker A: Yeah. So I support it.
[00:27:43] Speaker B: I love it. Well, you know, if you do do Disney from open to closed and you're at a Disney resort pro tip Jacuzzi in the night, then that'll be really good on your muscles. You know, you can at least say you dipped in there without wasting your park day, because there's no sleep at Disney. There's just no sleep.
[00:28:05] Speaker A: No sleep at Disney, for sure.
[00:28:06] Speaker B: No, it's not.
[00:28:07] Speaker A: It's not a relaxing vacation.
[00:28:10] Speaker B: You need a vacation from being at Disney. All right, Jen Brooks, who wants the next question?
[00:28:15] Speaker C: I'll take it.
What is a fun fact about you that most people don't know?
[00:28:22] Speaker A: I'm a vegetarian. Maybe that. Well, I was pescatarian since I was 10 in September. I stopped eating seafood this past September. This past September? Yeah. So, yeah, I was like, I didn't have any meat or, like, chicken or anything. Like, literally the only thing I would eat was seafood. So I was pescatarian for the whole time until, yeah, September. I was like, you know what? I'm making the move. So I'm vegetarian. I don't know if that's. Yeah, I guess a lot of people don't know that.
[00:28:54] Speaker B: Congratulations.
[00:28:54] Speaker A: Are you vegetarian, too?
[00:28:56] Speaker C: I'm vegan.
[00:28:57] Speaker A: Nice. So Disney's probably, like, probably an easy place for you to go because there's so many options. I mean, they're not all good, but they at least have them.
[00:29:06] Speaker C: Yeah, some are better than others, but. Yeah, it's. Yeah.
[00:29:12] Speaker B: Steakhouse 71.
[00:29:14] Speaker A: Well, sometimes I just think that they're like, some. Some things are really creative, and some things I just don't understand.
[00:29:23] Speaker C: Yeah.
[00:29:24] Speaker A: At all. Like, as just an option.
[00:29:27] Speaker C: Yeah, I know. I totally. I get what you're saying. Some.
They are not all created equally.
[00:29:34] Speaker A: Like, I think I'm bigger than Disney. I don't think. I don't. Do you like. Do you like jackfruit?
[00:29:39] Speaker C: See, I am not a fan of jackfruit.
[00:29:41] Speaker A: Neither am I. I think that all those options need to go away. I don't know.
[00:29:45] Speaker D: Hey, I thought jackfruit hot dog is good that they have and. Okay, I am in the minority here. I will be quiet.
[00:29:53] Speaker A: No, no, no, no. I think I have an issue with it more as, like, the only vegan option at the place because it's like, I feel like it's just an option that maybe just because it's vegan, I don't think it should be the vegan Option, because it's, like, such a niche. Like, not everybody likes it at all. So that's my only issue with the. Yeah, the vegan.
[00:30:14] Speaker B: All right, Briggs, do you have another rapid fire question? Or if not, I will start wrapping up.
[00:30:20] Speaker D: I don't know if I have another one.
[00:30:23] Speaker B: You can make something up.
[00:30:25] Speaker D: Okay.
Yeah. Gee, thanks, guys.
[00:30:30] Speaker B: Sorry.
[00:30:31] Speaker D: What. What is your favorite park to visit?
[00:30:36] Speaker A: Magic Kingdom.
Always Magic Kingdom. It's just.
[00:30:40] Speaker C: That was quick.
[00:30:41] Speaker B: There was no hesitation there.
[00:30:44] Speaker A: Because the thing is, is, like, I don't need to go on any rides. I could just be there. I'm in there. Atmosphere. I see the castle. Everything's good in the world, even, you know, it's just no matter what day time, whatever, anything going on in life, it's just that. It's just.
[00:30:59] Speaker C: Do you like to go and just sit on the hub grass and just look at the castle and just.
[00:31:04] Speaker B: Or the people mover or the people.
[00:31:07] Speaker A: The people mover. Yes.
[00:31:08] Speaker C: Yes.
[00:31:08] Speaker A: Yes. Yeah.
Yes. Well, no, you know, I just feel like the hub grass is. Somebody's sleeping next to me, and then. It's not funny.
Who's snoring? Who's eating food? Like a. You know, it's too overstimulating, but people mover. Love, love people mover.
[00:31:29] Speaker B: That's too funny. Okay, I got one more question from the audience, and we didn't even really Touch about D23 and being invited there, because I'm sure that was pretty cool for you as well. Hopefully we'll see you there in August.
[00:31:45] Speaker A: Destination D23, right? This year? Yes.
That's Coronado.
[00:31:52] Speaker B: Yeah. Walt Disney World. Okay, got a question from the audience, AKA Mike. What is a day in the life of a Disney artist? Like, I can't believe I didn't think about that one myself.
[00:32:02] Speaker A: It depends.
Freedom Tale. Waking up and drinking a Celsius. It always entails waking up and drinking Celsius. I'll start with that.
[00:32:13] Speaker B: You and Mike would be great friends then. Yes, yes.
[00:32:17] Speaker D: I'm a ghost energy person myself.
[00:32:20] Speaker A: I just. I need. I need the boost. I need it. I'm really flavorless without it. It's hard to go about my day without. Without caffeine and then maybe working on concepts or filming content for pieces that I did. There's really only certain days of the week I'll paint and I'll be, like, in my zone, painting or, like, the thing is, what's. What's exciting about. I guess my day to day is, like, you know, I prepare for, like, events. So, like, planning for another event that'll be at Four Seasons. It's like, I know I need to create a certain amount of pieces, so then just, like, gaining inspiration for those pieces. So if I'm not painting, I'm doing concepts or like, today I went. I'm doing some work for house. So I went to the house to get some measurements of walls for pieces. And so it's a range. And then some days, honestly, in full transparency, I don't want to do anything at all. And if I don't take the time to recharge and live and sometimes just lay down and watch tv, it's like, I need those days too. So it really depends on just how I'm feeling that day. But the day in the life of a Disney artist ranges greatly day to day.
[00:33:34] Speaker B: Except for the Celsius.
[00:33:36] Speaker A: Except for the Celsius. That is a constant. Yes.
[00:33:38] Speaker D: Okay, follow up. What's your favorite Celsius flavor?
[00:33:42] Speaker A: There's that. The. What's it called? It's like some weird name, but it's like the marshmallow orange one. Have you ever had that one?
[00:33:51] Speaker B: I. I haven't, but Michael's been raving about it. I know which one. I imagine the can, but I can't remember the name.
[00:33:57] Speaker A: Yes. And then my boyfriend's favorite is the Coca Cola one. And so I like that one a lot too. Like the. That's, like, cola flavored.
[00:34:05] Speaker B: I don't think I've seen that one.
[00:34:07] Speaker A: That one is really good. So I've had a lot of those. And he even. We were out of them today, and he, like, went on a little scavenger hunt trying to find some, and they're harder to find. Sometimes I think that, like, because not all the places have all the flavors, so.
[00:34:21] Speaker B: Right.
Yeah. Well, great question. I love to hear it. Okay, we've definitely kept you a lot longer than expected, so. Sorry. Bear with me. Give me a few more minutes.
[00:34:33] Speaker A: No, please.
[00:34:34] Speaker B: We're having a great time.
[00:34:35] Speaker A: Yes. Yeah.
[00:34:36] Speaker C: Just to say I'm not sorry. This is amazing.
[00:34:39] Speaker B: Okay, so just a couple things, actually. Trying to end it. You said you went to someone's house. Do you do custom commission work? Custom.
[00:34:49] Speaker A: I do custom pieces. Everything still needs to go through the same rule process with Disney, which is super important, but I don't necessarily take all requests for custom pieces. So it's got to be something that I feel strongly about, that I'll do the character justice, and then it's something that I have interest in also. I think setting expectations is something that is super important. So, you know, basically I'll come up with a sketch first and I'll share it with the person and see how they feel about it. And I'm like, please give me all of your thoughts, because this is something that we're working on together. I want to take that into account. And sometimes they'll have ideas. And I'm like, ah, well, what if we did this? And then I'll. So, yes, short answer. Yes, long answer. Sometimes.
[00:35:29] Speaker B: I'm sure the people would love to know that. So thank you. Okay. Where can people follow you and buy your work?
[00:35:36] Speaker A: My Instagram or, like, and TikTok is just my name. Dom Corona. D O M C O R O N A. I have pieces that are available, like, on my website, which is don corona.com or also disney fine art.com. that's pretty much the best way to find my. There won't be, like, original pieces available online, but if there's anything that anybody sees that they want more information about, they're more than welcome to. I think emailing me is probably the best option for that, which is. My email is just domom corona.com.
[00:36:05] Speaker B: All right, what's next for you? Any upcoming projects or events that we should look forward to?
[00:36:12] Speaker A: Well, the goal of mine this year is to be part of more charitable organizations, and I'm really passionate about animals. That's, like, my number one, like, passion. If I can, like, you know, it's like, I've been really lucky and I've had a wonderful, like, time being an artist so far, and it's great, but I want to be able to do more. And I think it's. It's like I can. I know I can do more with my work and give back. So getting more involved in different charitable organizations that give back to, I guess, animals and help, you know, my dog Nemo is a rescue, so I'm super keen on all that stuff. So, yeah, that's. That's what's next for me is really. That's my big goal for this year.
[00:36:58] Speaker B: I love that.
Fun fact about me for all of our listeners. I actually volunteer at a dog rescue. Both of my dogs are rescues, but at least twice a week, I always volunteer at dog rescue. And it's one of my favorite things in the world. I actually consider it exercise as well as, you know, just filling my soul because I'll run those dogs and they wear me out. But, yeah, I love that. Absolutely. Okay, last question. Festival of the Arts for 2026. Is that in the works?
[00:37:33] Speaker A: Hopefully. I know for. For a bit, but yeah, I mean, if the opportunity arises, I would want to.
Yes, yes, yes, I'm there, I'm there. Yes, mentally, I'm there.
[00:37:47] Speaker B: And I also want our listeners to know if you do follow Dom, he's very good about posting where he's gonna be, what he's got coming up. Like, you know, with Disney Springs, I'm sure if the opportunity comes up again for you to be there physically and greeting guests and fans, you'll be posting on your social media. Same with like, when you're in the Four Seasons, I've seen you post stuff when you're there. So if you are interested in meeting him or seeing what else is next for him, whether Rescue or at Walt Disney World, definitely encourage you to follow him on his Instagram and TikTok. So for all those listening out there, if you loved hearing Dom's story screenshot this episode on any of your social medias, tag us and tell us your favorite part. We'll be sharing or resharing on our social media stories as they come in. Brooks, Jen, do you guys have any more questions for Dom before we wrap up and do the trivia question?
[00:38:49] Speaker C: Good.
[00:38:51] Speaker D: I just enjoyed it all.
[00:38:54] Speaker A: Yeah, this has been great.
[00:38:55] Speaker C: This has been wonderful.
[00:38:57] Speaker B: Really enjoyed it. I think Woody as well enjoyed it because I just heard him.
[00:39:02] Speaker D: He was echoing our sentiments.
[00:39:04] Speaker A: Yeah, we've been. He's been sleeping like a rock. Yeah, yeah, he had a great time.
[00:39:10] Speaker B: I love it. He's such a cutie pie. Well, Dom, from the bottom of all of our hearts, including Kelton, who isn't here, thank you so much for being on today's episode. This was fun. This was informative. For anyone out there who is looking to be a Disney fine artist, hopefully you've enjoyed this episode and learn a little bit about Dom's story and how he came to fame and as well, you know, maybe you're inspired to go check out the Festival of the Arts in 2026 if you didn't get a chance to do so this year, it is honestly a fantastic time. And you know, if you've listened to our previous episode of Festival of the Arts, you probably heard that there's also broad. What is it? Broadway. Jen, help me out here. What's it called?
[00:39:59] Speaker A: Broadway Concert Series.
[00:40:01] Speaker B: Thank you. A new concert was in there and I was like, man, I'm not getting the right wording in my head.
Thank you. Broadway Concert Series. Yes. So you've got artwork, you've got artists, you've got live music, entertainment galore. Of course you've got the Broad Broadway. Why can't I say that? Broadway concert series and so much more at Festival of the arts. This was 2025, super successful year for Dom for this festival and of course many other artists. Hopefully you were there and you tried his delicious Arterita that I'm still salty I didn't try, but looking forward to trying whatever creation you come up with next year.
And with that, Brooks, you want to let us know what the trivia question slash answer is?
[00:40:49] Speaker D: Yeah, we still have that.
[00:40:52] Speaker B: We do.
[00:40:52] Speaker D: If you remember the trivia question. If you do, thumbs up for you. But the trivia question was in the class of 1989. Disney Legends consisted of the famous Disney's Nine Old Men, which were really the main original animators for all the early Disney movies.
And there was a 10th animator that was inducted into the Disney legends. Can y'all guess who the other artist is?
[00:41:27] Speaker B: I can't guess. I just saw the answer.
[00:41:30] Speaker D: So Dom is. You talked about how Mickey is your favorite to draw. It is the original animator of Mickey Mouse who I works.
[00:41:42] Speaker B: Is it oob or is it ub? Either way, it does not matter. Ub. I kind of like ub. Mr. Iwerks himself.
[00:41:48] Speaker D: Yeah, Mr. Iwerks himself. The, you know, came up with the original drawings of Mickey Mouse, Steamboat Willie and then, I mean he came up with several others when he departed from Disney for a while and then came back and he true Disney legend.
[00:42:10] Speaker A: Yeah, it's embarrassing. I didn't know that.
[00:42:12] Speaker C: But you know, don't worry, we regularly stumped.
[00:42:18] Speaker D: Now I'm surprised he wasn't the first person inducted, so.
[00:42:22] Speaker B: No kidding.
[00:42:23] Speaker D: Yeah.
[00:42:24] Speaker A: But if I have any excuse, the way it was worded made me think that it was maybe a woman.
So. Because you said nine men or whatever. Yeah, yeah, they were all.
So who's the woman?
[00:42:39] Speaker B: That's good deductive reasoning.
[00:42:42] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:42:42] Speaker C: I didn't even make a bar with.
[00:42:46] Speaker B: The same train as Jen. What was happening? Oh my gosh. That was a great question, Bricks. Thank you. Thank you for that one. Definitely gotta pay tribute to Mr. I Works. And no, I'm not saying his first name. Alright, alrighty.
[00:42:59] Speaker A: I think it's Ub.
[00:43:00] Speaker B: I think it's Ub. But Uub sounds cool too.
[00:43:03] Speaker A: Yeah, it sounds like the sweet. Isn't it Ube? Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:43:06] Speaker B: Ube.
He's probably rolling in his grave. They just call me Ube.
[00:43:11] Speaker A: Exactly.
[00:43:12] Speaker D: I believe so.
[00:43:14] Speaker B: Hopefully you cracked me up, Brooks.
[00:43:16] Speaker A: I love it.
[00:43:18] Speaker B: But you know, on that note, I think this about does it for this week's episode of the Mouse Ears Podcast again. If you love what you heard here here and you want to continue to follow Dom's growth and progress and successes and beautiful art pieces, you can follow him on Instagram and TikTok, Dom Corona or on Disney Fine Artist as well.
Don't forget to join our Mouse Ears Podcast Facebook group and follow us on TikTok, Facebook X& Instagram to stay up to date with all things trouble, but mostly Disney. If you're interested in having a Fairytale Journeys agent, book your next trip, visit fairytalejourneys.com and let them know that the podcast sent you. Lastly, if you enjoy our weekly episodes of the Mouse Reese Podcast, especially this one, we'd love for you to leave us a review wherever you listen to us. Again. Dom, thank you so much.
[00:44:11] Speaker D: Yes, thank you.
[00:44:12] Speaker B: And to everyone out there listening, listen, we had a lot more fun than probably you did.
[00:44:18] Speaker A: No, no, no, it was wonderful. This was great. Thank you.
[00:44:21] Speaker B: Thank you. Seriously, for everyone else out there, until next episode. Thanks everyone. Bye.
