George W. Bush’s paintings to go on display at Epcot this summer – alongside stories written by the former president
EVERYONE has an inner artist, even former president George W. Bush.
Art fans and history buffs can check out Bush's latest collection of oil paintings and stories about the sacrifices of veterans, which will be on display at Disney World's Epcot this summer.
The art exhibit, Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors, comprises 66 full-color portraits and a four-panel mural as part of a Disney tribute to those who've served.
The project is made possible thanks to The Bush Institute’s Veteran and Military Families program, which "helps post-9/11 veterans and their families make a successful transition to civilian life."
“Celebrating those who give so much to our country has been part of the fabric of The Walt Disney Company throughout our 100-year history,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences.
"We’re grateful to the Bush Institute for allowing us to feature this special collection and share it with our guests.”
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Each piece consists of a portrait of a veteran, accompanied by their story, personally written by former President Bush himself.
The collection made an initial debut in 2017 at the George W. Bush Presidential Center on the Southern Methodist University campus in Dallas, Texas.
In 2019, the pieces were also displayed at the Kennedy Center as part of an exhibit to honor service members.
“We are thrilled Portraits of Courage will be on display for EPCOT visitors to experience this year,” said Ken Hersh, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center.
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“My hope is that those who have the opportunity to see this special exhibit will also remember the leadership, service, and sacrifice behind each of the heroes painted and the unique challenges our service members and their families face when transitioning out of the military.”
Along with the exhibit, the display aims to spotlight resources to support 9/11 veterans who've served since September 11, 2001.
George W. Bush revealed that he picked up painting as a hobby in 2009 after leaving the Oval Office.
The former commander-in-chief explained that he'd been inspired to start painting after reading an essay about Winston Churchill's artwork, according to NBC.
An amateur painter, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom had dedicated himself to watercolor and oil landscapes.
EPCOT announced on Wednesday that the exhibit will be open to visitors at its resort in Orlando, Florida.
The paintings and stories will be on display for a year at Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion starting next month, starting June 9.
