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Epcot International Festival of the Arts – Artist Profile, Ashley Taylor

Epcot International Festival of the Arts 2022

Spending a moment with Ashley Taylor’s artwork, guests may feel transported into a happy memory of one of their favorite Disney films, or experience a sudden Disney earworm, such as “A Whole New World” from Disney’s Aladdin.

Taylor – a freelance designer and illustrator and WonderGround Gallery artist – draws inspiration from moments or characters that resonate with her life experiences.

“What I love most about Disney movies is there’s always a song or moment to describe what I’m feeling at the time,” Taylor said. “It’s an authentic way for me to connect with a film and create art that’s thoughtful and meaningful.”

Her new works for the 2022 Epcot International Festival of the Arts feature some of these special Disney moments. 

One of these four new pieces, titled “Find Your Happily Ever After,” immediately draws in guests with a floral, purple, and gold illustrated frame. The frame arches upward and off the page in almost an Art Nouveau way, drawing the viewer into a composition of warm tones. 

Foliage surrounds a castle tucked in the upper left hand corner of the piece. Red, orange, and purple trees play hide and seek with woodland critters, leading one’s eye to Giselle from Enchanted sitting gracefully in front of her storybook cottage. Guests may start to hum the joyful tune “True Love’s Kiss” as they immerse themselves in this masterfully composed and detailed artwork.

Taylor’s artist influences like Eyvind Earle (think lush, styled landscapes from Disney’s Sleeping Beauty) and Mary Blair (It’s a Small World concept art) are evident in her work, yet take on a style fans immediately know as Taylor’s work.

“Art is such a vulnerable, personal thing,” stated Taylor. “My favorite memories are when people come to my signing events and show me their artwork.”

“It fills my heart with so much joy when they come back years later and say ‘I got the job’ or ‘I started creating again. We need more artists in this world. It’s been such a privilege to watch so many artists follow their dreams.”

Just as Taylor’s art evokes joy from inspired Disney moments, so do her kind sentiments.

“Don’t be afraid to share your talents with the world,” Taylor said. “If it’s something you’re passionate about, put yourself out there! The world is ready for you! Your dreams are closer than you think!”

Join Taylor at the Festival for her signing event at the Wonderground Gallery tent February 20-21 and follow her on Instagram to explore more, @ashley24taylor.

-Tiera Tanner

Tiera Tanner lives her life spreading pixie dust. Whether creating art in her studio, or raising her two young sons, Tiera is inspired by the magic of Disney, and is always encouraging her husband to plan their next trip to the parks.

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About Lou Mongello

Lou Mongello is a former attorney who left the practice to pursue his passion, and is now a recognized Disney expert, author, speaker, and host of WDW Radio. Learn more…

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