Report: NFFC 2003 Kick-Off Convention
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Bob Olszewski spoke to us during our lunch and gave us a preview of his upcoming Disney pieces including his Disneyland set. After the coming attractions Bob talked about collecting from the artist's point of view. He told stories of why pieces seem to rise and fall in value using anecdotes from his lengthy career. It was neat to see collecting from a different point of view.
Finally there was a seminar that was a real treat. Disney Archivist Dave Smith moderated a panel discussion honoring Mary Blair. Mary was one of Walt's favorite artists. She did many of the illustrations for the little golden book series. Her style can be seen in Johnny Appleseed, early concept art for Alice in Wonderland, and it's a small world which is perhaps her greatest achievement. She also did ceramic murals for Disneyland and The Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World which remains to this day. Alice Davis, Harriet Burns and Rolly Crump all came out to pay tribute to their colleague.
Dave started the presentation by showing a film about a mural that Mary created for the eye center at UCLA. The film showcases Mary as she designs and creates the mural based upon it's a small world. After the film each of the Disney legends recounted personal memories they had of Mary. Rolly showed slides he had of construction of it's a small world. Rolly worked at bringing Mary's 2-D design to three dimensions and was amazed at her artistic ability. Harriet and Alice told stories that showed Walt's appreciation of Mary's work. It was an honor to be in the presence of Disney legends as they discussed someone they feel is so special. A special treat was that Mary's son Kevin Blair was in the audience to see his mother honored. John Canemaker is working on a book honoring Mary's work.
Kick-Off was a wonderful experience filled with insight and learning about The Walt Disney Company. But beyond the seminars was the great experience of spending the day surrounded by Disney fans and Disney legends. I hope you will be able to attend future NFFC events, but if you can't, see if there is a chapter near you to have the chance to share some time with your fellow Disney fans.
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-- Posted January 21, 2003
-- Story and Pictures by Benji Breitbart
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