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

As the new year nears, it's time to note the dates for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Taking place from Jan. 16 to Feb. 23, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort, this festival offers a global celebration that combines culinary, visual, and performing arts to create a truly magical experience.

Who Are the Artists This Year?

This year's festival will showcase a lineup of artists who will immerse you in stunning artwork rich in color, expression, and inspiration. We are thrilled to introduce some of the new and returning talent attending the festival and highlight some of their incredible art pieces:

Rosana Iarusso – New in 2026!

Rosana Iarusso was born and brought up in Mount Vernon, New York. Her artistic journey began as soon as she could hold a pencil. In her Snow White-themed room, she would draw or create art while watching her well-worn VHS tape of The Little Mermaid, fostering her simultaneous love for Disney and art.  

She is currently employed as a Senior Character Artist for Disney Consumer Products, primarily illustrating Disney Princesses and their sidekicks, Tinker Bell, Minnie Mouse, and many other cherished characters. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new artistic mediums.

Darren Wilson

Darren Wilson serves as a Senior Manager of Graphic Design for Disney Parks, Products, and Experiences, having dedicated 26 enchanting years to The Walt Disney Company. He has crafted award-winning designs and created unique works of art showcased in the Art of Disney galleries.  

He is tasked with producing creative content for feature films such as Disney and Pixar’s Coco and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, as well as live-action films like Pinocchio, Peter Pan, The Lion King, and Aladdin. Currently, he designs for Disney Consumer Products and Disney Parks.

Yesenia Moises

Yesenia Moises is an Afro-Latina author, illustrator, and toy designer celebrated for her vibrant picture books. She graduated from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Toy Design and began her journey to bring wonder and magic to young readers through her colorful and whimsical designs.

Her original picture book has captivated audiences globally. Her distinctive use of color, curls, and charisma forms a unique style of Afro Fantasy that she has contributed to publishers, toy companies, and television studios.

Dave Perillo

Dave Perillo is an illustrator and designer from the suburbs of Philadelphia. Guided by a drawing book and countless hours of cartoons, he doodled his way through school and pursued graphic design in college. His initial job was as an illustrator in the glamorous realm of medical publishing.

After producing numerous illustrations of dancing kidneys and otoscopes, he felt the urge to nurture his creativity and started crafting his own pop culture-inspired art. This journey led him into the world of comic conventions, art galleries, and freelance design. His retro art style stems from his passion for the mid-century modern aesthetic and is influenced by numerous legends.

Jerrod Maruyama

Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator who focuses on creating cute character concepts and designs. He graduated with a degree in Illustration from San Jose State University and started his career as an art director in the children's educational software field.

After transitioning to full-time freelance work, Jerrod has collaborated with numerous top companies in the entertainment and toy industries, applying his unique style of cuteness to well-known characters and brands.

Dylan Bonner

Participating in the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts for the sixth time, Dylan Bonner is an illustrator from Grand Rapids, Michigan. His passion for creating art began in childhood after he fell in love with the Walt Disney Classic The Little Mermaid.

Since 2017, he has contributed to the Disney Princess brand in various formats, including comic books, toys, Consumer Products, and now, Fine Art.

Josey Tsao

Josey Tsao, an illustrator located in Los Angeles, California, crafts artwork influenced by both real and fictional stories. Her experience ranges from being a Concept Designer for theme parks to a Background Painter in animation, where she delights in using illustration to narrate tales of people and places.

She has enjoyed collaborating with Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Publishing Worldwide, Disney Yellow Shoes, Disney’s WonderGround Gallery, among others.

Will Artists Be Signing Artwork?

Yes, a selection of artists will be signing their works throughout the festival! Make sure to check the Artist Portal for specific dates and times.

When and Where Can You Meet Artists?

Visitors can meet artists throughout the park! For detailed information about the talented artists participating in this year's festival, visit the Artist Portal for updates.

Will There Be Live Art Creations at the Festival?

Absolutely, there are over 200 new artworks being crafted for this festival, with some being created right in front of the guests! Visitors can head to CommuniCore Hall Plaza to watch canvases come alive as an onstage visual artist paints beloved Disney characters.

What Other Art Experiences Will Be Available at the Festival?

The excitement is endless at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, with engaging and creative experiences at every turn!  

A standout feature is the Animation Academy at the America Gardens Theatre. In this interactive session, guests and their families can enjoy a front row view as a Disney animator leads them step by step in drawing a beloved character!  

Another must-see is The Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural. After guests paint their squares, they can step back to admire the beautiful scene they helped create.  

And be sure to look down! The Chalk Art Galleries transform EPCOT’s walkways into living canvases, where artists create stunning works right before the eyes of the visitors. Perhaps their favorite character will serve as inspiration.