A few highlights from the recent Heritage Auction, featuring the art of Marc Davis. From gag drawings and personal notes to Picasso-esque art. This man expressed himself in a multitude of ways.
The sculpture of him was a gift from Imagineering to Marc upon his retirement.
I just discovered these two Kley drawings online. It is unusual to see his sequential work, or in this case A, B illustrations.
I suppose the first image might say: Come check this out! And the second one: Booo!
Great attitudes on the human figures as well as the the fantasy ocean characters.
I believe Al Dempster painted both of these visuals for the Counsel Rock scene from the Jungle Book. First the color sketch, then the final background (with the characters cel overlay).
Both absolutely stunning!
Yesterday was Frank Thomas' 112th birthday. His work and the films he worked on have become timeless masterpieces. When reflecting on his animation career Frank said that he always felt lucky to have been at the right place at the right time. Aptly called "The Laurence Olivier of Animation" he set himself very high standards when it came to creating a performance. Someone asked Frank once about now he felt about his accomplishments. He responded by pointing out that 2 or 3 scenes (out of all he had done) met his standards. He did not say which ones.
People who worked with him said that he was impossible to please. There was always...always room for improvements. Disney was so lucky to have such an animator who helped elevate the art form.
The first photo shows him in his office working on Miss Bianca for The Rescuers, around 1976.
In the next pic we see Frank at the premiere for the film in 1977 along with actress Eva Gabor, who voiced Miss Bianca.
Today is Eric Larson's birthday. This is also post # 1500. I am re-posting the first blog image from June 6, 2011. The pic was taken by Hans Bacher (I believe in 1980) as I am paying attention to Eric's animation demonstration.
Eric is reviewing a pencil test on an old Moviola. From left yo right: Bill Frake, Kathy Zielinski and Matt O'Callaghan.
