A Dazzling Display of Disney’s Finest Costumes and Regal Treasures
As the sun casts a warm glow over the bustling streets of Arlington, Texas, the Arlington Museum of Art stands as a beacon of cultural vitality, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating world of art and design. This fall, the museum is set to unveil a truly extraordinary exhibition that will transport guests into the realms of their beloved Disney films and fairy tales.
Beginning on September 14th, the Arlington Museum of Art will proudly host two remarkable exhibitions: “Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume” and “All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives.” These awe-inspiring collections will showcase the breathtaking artistry and meticulous craftsmanship behind some of the most iconic costumes and regal treasures from the Disney archives.
Bringing Disney’s Beloved Characters to Life
Step into the enchanting world of Disney as you explore the intricate details of costumes that have graced the silver screen. From the linen silk tweed coat of the eccentric Captain Jack Sparrow to the delicate, hand-stitched gown worn by Emma Watson’s Belle in “Beauty and the Beast,” these meticulously crafted garments are true works of art.
“It’s always like Christmas when they take costumes out of the crates,” shares Kendall Quirk, the museum’s registrar and director of exhibitions. “It’s an emotional thing to see these personal characters in front of you and to see what they really look like.”
Quirk’s enthusiasm is palpable, and it’s easy to understand why. Each costume on display is accompanied by captivating insights and quotes from the designers and actors who brought these characters to life. Visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the creative process, learning how the costumes were designed to accommodate the movements and personalities of the actors.
“Early on Meryl knew she was going to be crouched down and have this stance, almost like a spider’s stance,” reads a quote from Oscar-winning designer Colleen Atwood, who designed Meryl Streep’s costume as the Witch in the “Into the Woods” film. “I had to make sure that the costume worked for her.”
Regal Treasures and Nostalgic Gems
Alongside the stunning costumes, the “All That Glitters: The Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibition invites visitors to behold the captivating crowns, jewelry, and other regal treasures that have graced the heads and adorned the bodies of Disney’s most beloved characters.
From the delicate crown worn by Lily James in “Cinderella” to the intricate jewels from the “Chronicles of Narnia” franchise, each piece on display is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the artistry that goes into creating these timeless treasures.
For many visitors, these exhibitions will evoke a sense of nostalgia, reconnecting them with the movies and characters they grew up watching. Quirk, herself, finds her own connection to the exhibition, recalling the memories of watching “The Princess Diaries” and relating to the crowns and props on display.
“Quirk grew up watching and relating to the franchise and said she feels the rest of her generation can say the same,” notes the Fort Worth Report, highlighting the universal appeal of these beloved Disney stories.
Celebrating the Art of Costuming and Design
The Arlington Museum of Art’s decision to host these exhibitions sends a powerful message: art is not limited to paintings on a wall. The museum aims to showcase the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating the costumes and props that bring our favorite characters to life.
“Costuming is an art, and these designers are artists,” Quirk emphasizes. “There are sketches on the wall and you hear them talk about it, read their quotes about how they created these characters and their looks. These movies are thought about and cared about by everyone involved, not just the viewer.”
Through the “Heroes & Villains” and “All That Glitters” exhibitions, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the sculpting of a glass slipper, the casting of a prop crown, and the sketching of an ice-studded suit for Jack Frost in “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause.” These behind-the-scenes insights offer a deeper appreciation for the artistic process that brings these beloved characters to life.
A Multifaceted Cultural Destination
While the Disney exhibitions take center stage, the Arlington Museum of Art is far more than just a showcase for these dazzling costumes and treasures. The museum is a vibrant cultural hub, offering a diverse array of exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.
Concurrently with the Disney showcases, the museum is hosting “She Said, She Said: Contemporary Artists from the Rubell Museum,” a powerful exhibition that highlights the perspectives of female artists. Additionally, the museum recently opened the “Giant Water Bottle Sculpture Project,” a thought-provoking installation made from over 20,000 water bottles that has been traveling across Tarrant County.
The museum’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access is woven into its very fabric. As stated on their website, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access (DEIA) is woven into our mission at the Arlington Museum of Art. Our commitment is to be an organization where everyone feels respected, a place where all people can experience art without barriers, a community that affirms human diversity in its many forms, and a leader that models a culture of inclusion.”
A Celebration of Art, Culture, and Community
The Arlington Museum of Art’s latest exhibitions are a testament to the power of art to captivate, inspire, and bring people together. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan, a lover of contemporary art, or simply someone who appreciates the dedication and creativity that goes into bringing these stories to life, the museum’s upcoming showcases promise to be an unforgettable experience.
As you step through the doors of the Arlington Museum of Art, prepare to be transported into a world of shimmering costumes, regal treasures, and the boundless creativity that has defined the Disney legacy. This is an opportunity to not only admire the artistry but to also explore the deeper connections between art, culture, and the shared human experiences that unite us all.
So, mark your calendars and plan your visit to the Arlington Museum of Art this fall. Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney, the power of contemporary art, and the boundless possibilities that arise when a community comes together to celebrate the transformative power of the arts.
