New and Returning Artists Coming to EPCOT Festival of the Arts in 2026

List of Artists Coming to the Festival of the Arts

With the new year approaching, it’s time to mark your calendar for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts! Returning Jan. 16 through Feb. 23, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort, the festival is a global celebration that blends culinary, visual, and performing arts to create an experience that is truly magical.

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This year’s festival promises a stunning lineup of artists who will immerse you in beautiful artwork filled with color, expression, and inspiration. We’re thrilled to share some of the new and returning talent coming to the festival and showcase a peek at their amazing art pieces.

Rosana Iarusso – New in 2026!

Rosana Iarusso was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York, and her love for Disney and art grew in tandem from childhood. Currently a Senior Character Artist for Disney Consumer Products, Rosana specializes in drawing beloved characters like Disney Princesses, their sidekicks, Tinker Bell, and Minnie Mouse. Her passion for Disney shines through in her vibrant, classic character work, with a focus on Ducks, Mickey, and Princesses—perfect for new collectors!

 Darren Wilson

A fixture in the Disney art world, Darren Wilson is a Senior Manager of Graphic Design for Disney Parks, Products and Experiences, celebrating 26 magical years with The Walt Disney Company. Known for his unique style that captures a nostalgic, timeless quality with attention to detail, Darren’s works can be found in the Art of Disney galleries. His art, which includes pieces featuring classic characters like the Beast in the Shadows, Jiminy Cricket, and Mickey Mouse and Friends, has created a special following of collectors worldwide.

Yesenia Moises

Yesenia Moises is an incredible Afro-Latina author, illustrator, and toy designer known for her colorful and whimsical designs. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Toy Design, Yesenia creates wonder for young readers.

Her trademark use of color, curls, and charisma creates a special brand of Afro Fantasy, evident in works like her debut picture book Stella’s Stellar Hair and illustrations for Serena Williams’ The Adventures of Qai Qai.

Dave Perillo

Based out of the Philly ‘burbs, Dave Perillo has transitioned from drawing dancing kidneys in medical publishing to creating unique, pop culture-inspired art. His signature retro art style developed from his love of the mid-century modern aesthetic, which he applies beautifully to Disney subjects. He is particularly known for his art celebrating Disney Parks attractions like Horizons, Space Mountain, and Pirates of the Caribbean, giving favorite rides a nostalgic, stylized twist.

 Jerrod Maruyama

Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator specializing in instantly lovable cute character concepts and design. Since moving into freelance, Jerrod has worked with many industry leaders, bringing his distinct brand of cute to popular properties. His work for Disney often includes adorable vinyl figures and prints featuring Pixar Adorable Duos and Magic Kingdom Cuties, focusing on Parks and Mix concepts that are always a fan favorite.

 Dylan Bonner

Joining the festival for his sixth year, Dylan Bonner is an illustrator who was first enchanted by The Little Mermaid as a child. Since 2017, he has dedicated his career to the Disney Princess property, creating beautiful, emotive artwork for comic books, toys, and Fine Art.

 Josey Tsao

Josey Tsao is an illustrator based in Los Angeles who finds joy in using illustration to tell stories both real and imagined. She has had the pleasure of working with Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Publishing Worldwide, and Disney’s WonderGround Gallery, creating art inspired by people and places—a truly perfect fit for the global nature of EPCOT.

✨ Get Hands-On and Meet the Artists

Beyond viewing the stunning works, the festival offers multiple ways to engage with the creative process!

Will Artists Be Signing Artwork? Yes, a selection of artists will be signing their pieces throughout the festival! Be sure to visit the Artist Portal for specific dates and timing.

 * When and Where Can You Meet Artists? You can meet artists all around the park! For all the details about the many talented artists appearing at this year’s festival, be sure to visit the Artist Portal for updates.

Live Art and Interactive Experiences

Don’t miss the chance to see art come alive!

 * Will Any Artists Be Creating New Art Live at the Festival? Yes! There are over 200 new pieces of artwork being created for this festival—some of which will be created before your very eyes! Stop by CommuniCore Hall Plaza to see canvases come to life with the help of an onstage visual artist as they paint your favorite Disney characters.

 What Other Art Experiences Are Happening at the Festival?

Animation Academy: Head to the America Gardens Theatre for this interactive session where a Disney animator guides you, step by step, in bringing a beloved character to life!

   * The Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural: Join in and be part of something bigger! Contribute by painting your own squares and then step back to see the beautiful scene you helped create.

   * Chalk Art Galleries: Don’t forget to look down! EPCOT’s walkways are transformed into living canvases, where artists bring incredible creations to life right before your eyes.

Which artist are you most excited to meet and what other activities are you planning to experience at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?