We can't leave Dinoland, U.S.A. without stopping to admire this stone dinosaur. Made of found objects, it seems right at home outside Chester and Hester's place. The custom piece was commissioned for Disney's Animal Kingdom and created by renowned folk artist Mr. Imagination (aka Gregory Warmack).
Mr. I's unique sculptures are composed of bits of rock, glass, tile, jewelry and other objects. You may have seen some of his work at the Smithsonian or if you've visited a House of Blues location.
There are lots of interesting pieces that make up Mr. Imagination's dinosaur sculpture. Of particular interest is the gold-colored oval in the photo below. Found along one of the dinosaur's spines, it's actually a Disney Cast Member 1-year service award pin, featuring an image of Mickey Mouse as Steamboat Willie.
Funny story...I was forwarded this blog today by a friend who heard my story several years ago. I am a current cast member at Disney and was on the opening team of Disney's Animal Kingdom. Myself and another team member were walking in Dinoland while "Mr. Imagnination" was completing this piece. We started talking and he offered to put something from each of us in the sculpture. All I had with me was my name tag I was wearing, so I took off the 1 year pin and gave it to him. My teamate actually gave him a key which you can find about 3-4 inches to the right of the pin. He put these into the sculpture while we were there and it has become my story each time I am in Dinoland with someone new! So funny to see it here! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThat's an amazing story. I was also on the opening team at DAK. I'd love to talk to you more about it. Please email me at disneyshawn@mac.com or through Outlook. I look forward to hearing from you!
ReplyDeleteShawn
I am impressed...I have to say that I don't think I could ever give up my 1 year pin! Perhaps I am too selfish...I just love it so much!
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