Exciting New and Returning Artists Announced for the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

With the new year just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to save the date for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Coming back from Jan. 16 through Feb. 23, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort, this festival is a worldwide celebration that mixes culinary delights, stunning visual art, and captivating performances into one unforgettable experience.

This year’s festival presents an exciting roster of artists who will surround you with vibrant, expressive, and inspiring creations. It’s thrilling to highlight some of the fresh faces and returning favorites bringing their incredible artwork to the festival:

Rosana Iarusso grew up in Mount Vernon, New York, and her artistic adventure began as soon as she could pick up a pencil. Whether sketching in her Snow White-themed bedroom or crafting art while watching her well-loved VHS copy of The Little Mermaid, her passion for Disney and creativity blossomed side by side.

Today, she serves as a Senior Character Artist for Disney Consumer Products, focusing on drawing iconic Disney Princesses, their trusty companions, Tinker Bell, Minnie Mouse, and many cherished characters. When not immersed in work, she enjoys experimenting with new artistic techniques and materials.

Darren Wilson serves as a Senior Manager of Graphic Design within Disney Parks, Products and Experiences. With 26 enchanting years at The Walt Disney Company, he has crafted award-winning designs and created exclusive artwork showcased in the Art of Disney galleries.

He develops imaginative content for beloved feature films such as Disney and Pixar’s Coco and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. His talents also extend to live-action favorites including Pinocchio, Peter Pan, The Lion King, and Aladdin. Currently, he focuses on design projects for Disney Consumer Products and Disney Parks.

Yesenia Moises is an Afro-Latina creator, illustrator, and toy designer celebrated for her vibrant picture books. After earning her BFA in Toy Design from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology, she set off on a creative journey, using her vivid and playful designs to spark imagination and joy for kids everywhere.

Her debut picture book has captured hearts worldwide. With her signature blend of bold colors, lively curls, and magnetic charm, she has crafted a unique Afro Fantasy style that has inspired publishers, toy brands, and TV studios alike.

Hailing from the suburbs near Philly, Dave Perillo is an illustrator and designer with a passion for creativity. Armed with a trusty drawing book and countless hours of cartoons, he sketched his way through school and eventually pursued graphic design in college. His first professional gig? Crafting illustrations in the unique realm of medical publishing.

After creating endless images of dancing kidneys and otoscopes, Dave felt the urge to let his imagination run wild and started producing his own pop culture-inspired artwork. This exciting journey led him to comic conventions, art galleries, and freelance design projects. His signature retro style is influenced by his love for mid-century modern design and inspired by many iconic artists.

Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator known for his adorable character designs and charming concepts. He studied Illustration at San Jose State University and started out as an art director in the world of children’s educational software.

Now a full-time freelance artist, Jerrod has teamed up with top names in entertainment and the toy industry, adding his unique touch of cuteness to beloved characters and franchises.

Returning for his sixth year at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, Dylan Bonner is a talented illustrator from Grand Rapids, Michigan. His passion for art began as a youngster, inspired by the magical world of the Walt Disney Classic The Little Mermaid.

Since 2017, Dylan has contributed to the Disney Princess franchise through various creative outlets, including comic books, toys, Consumer Products, and now, Fine Art.

Josey Tsao is a talented illustrator based in Los Angeles, California, whose creations are inspired by both real-life tales and imaginative stories. With experience as a Concept Designer for theme parks and a Background Painter in animation, she delights in bringing characters and settings to life through her artwork.

Her impressive career includes collaborations with Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Publishing Worldwide, Disney Yellow Shoes, Disney’s WonderGround Gallery, and many other Disney ventures.

Absolutely! Throughout the festival, some of the featured artists will be autographing their creations. Make sure to check out the Artist Portal for the schedule and times when they’ll be signing.

You’ll have the chance to meet artists sprinkled throughout the park! For all the latest on the fantastic creators taking part this year, be sure to visit the Artist Portal for the most up-to-date info.

Absolutely! There are more than 200 brand-new pieces of artwork being crafted especially for this festival, and some of them will come to life right before your eyes! Head over to CommuniCore Hall Plaza to watch talented visual artists bring your favorite Disney characters to the canvas in real time.

At the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, creativity is bursting from every corner, making it a nonstop celebration of artistic fun!

A standout experience you won’t want to miss is the Animation Academy at the America Gardens Theatre. Here, a skilled Disney animator leads you and your family through a step-by-step drawing session, bringing a favorite character to life right before your eyes!

Another can’t-miss activity, and a personal favorite, is The Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural. It’s a fantastic way to contribute to a larger masterpiece. After painting your assigned squares, you can step back and admire the stunning scene you helped create.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes on the ground! The Chalk Art Galleries transform EPCOT’s pathways into vibrant, living canvases, where talented artists craft amazing works right in front of you. Maybe your beloved character will make a special appearance in their art.