I find these layout sketches utterly magical. Disney artists who researched and designed environments were wizards. Even the house of the Darling family, in- and outside, is presented with a dreamlike quality. These guys knew how to use light and shade so effectively, it not only helped set the mood for a sequence, but their art became a major part of the film’s overall storytelling. The characters’ surroundings communicate their emotions just like the acting does.
I look at these atmospheric backdrops with a sense of awe, partly because this is the kind of work I myself can not do. That’s why I am forever grateful to layout and background artists who gave my own characters an interesting and beautiful world to live in.
These drawings are probably the work of Ken O’Connor or Ken Anderson. I’m sure some of you know the name of the rightful artist. If you do, I’d appreciate it if you would leave a comment to let us know.
In this film frame Wendy takes a final look at Pan’s ship as it sails away toward new adventures.
