Mary Blair was a highly influential concept artist and animator who left an indelible mark on the world of animation. Born on October 21, 1911 in McAlester, Oklahoma, she would go on to become one of the most celebrated artists in the history of the Walt Disney Company. Her unique artistic vision and groundbreaking work have solidified her legacy as a true pioneer in the world of animation.
From an early age, Mary Blair showed a keen interest in art and creativity. She was fortunate enough to win a scholarship to attend the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, where she studied under the guidance of influential artists such as Pruett Carter, Morgan Russell, and Lawrence Murphy. This formative experience helped shape her artistic style and laid the foundation for her future success in the world of animation.
Mary Blair's talent and creativity quickly caught the attention of Walt Disney himself, leading to her employment at the Walt Disney Company. Over the course of her career, she worked on numerous iconic projects, including "Alice in Wonderland," "Peter Pan," and "Cinderella." Her innovative concept art and character designs helped bring these beloved films to life and captivate audiences around the world.
In addition to her work on animated films, Mary Blair also contributed to the design of Disneyland's It's a Small World and Epcot's World Showcase. Her distinctive artistic style, characterized by bold colors and whimsical shapes, became synonymous with the Disney brand and continues to inspire artists and animators to this day.
Despite her professional success, Mary Blair remained humble and down-to-earth. She moved to California with her family in 1918 and married Lee Everett Blair in 1934. Both Mary and Lee were initially employed by the Ub Iwerks Studio, where they honed their craft and further developed their artistic skills. Mary's sister-in-law, animator Preston Blair, also played a significant role in her life and career.
Mary Blair's impact on the world of animation cannot be overstated. Her innovative concepts and bold artistic vision helped redefine the possibilities of animated storytelling and set new standards for creativity and expression. In 1991, she was posthumously named a Disney Legend, cementing her status as one of the most revered figures in the history of animation.
Throughout her career, Mary Blair inspired generations of artists and animators with her groundbreaking work and unbridled creativity. Her legacy continues to live on in the hearts of Disney fans and art enthusiasts around the world, ensuring that her contributions to the world of animation will never be forgotten.