An upcoming Disney auction will feature seven original works by Shag, a mid-century modern artist who has been creating theme park art for more than 20 years.
Van Eaton Gallery will be holding a “Disney Parks Featuring Shag Art” auction on March 28th and 29th. In-person bidding will take place at the California Gallery on the first day, but participation will be online on both days.
“These are the only (shag) originals we have come across in over 30 years of business,” gallery owner Mike Van Eaton says in the auction catalog.
The original ties into Disneyland’s anniversary, including Shag’s interpretation of the park map. Van Eaton estimates the work will fetch $30,000 to $50,000 at auction.
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Magical Tiki Room in 2003, Shag’s first work for Disney is also on display. According to the artist, Roy E. Disney, Walt Disney’s nephew, asked for the change. Instead, a young boy with his fist in the air should wave. The estimated winning price for this image is $20,000 to $40,000.
“Both Disney and I were unsure whether my simplistic 1950s and 1960s-inspired artwork would resonate with park guests, but the release of the paintings, apparel, and merchandise was a huge success,” says Shag, whose real name is Josh Agle.
The auction also includes other low-priced shag prints and items, including an 8-inch Tiki Room totem mug (signed on tag) and a lunch box celebrating Disneyland’s 50th anniversary. The gallery is also planning an “Evening with Shags” on March 20th, where artists will talk about their careers and collaborations.
Van Eaton’s customary assortment of theme park supplies, souvenirs, artifacts and documents from around the world will also be on sale. Here are five eye-catching items related to Walt Disney World.
• Part of the Main Street trolley tracks replaced at Magic Kingdom in 1985. Sections were turned into desk decorations and presented to VIPs. Spikes are also included. (Estimated maximum bid price: $200-$400)
• A 7.5-foot banner featuring three palm trees and a Mickey Mouse head. It says, “Walt Disney World Salutes Miami.” ($100-$300)
• Disney MGM Studios restaurant concept art. A 50’s Prime Time Café, a sci-fi Dein Theater, scenes from Zorro’s Cantina That Never Realized, and more. ($300-$500)
• A sign for YesterEars, a retail store that once stood on the grounds of Pleasure Island. Features Mickey and a film frame. ($300-500)
• Figment puppets from Epcot’s original Journey into Imagination attraction. “The doll is presented in good condition, with some material loss, dirt, oxidation due to age, and heavy wear from park use,” the catalog states. In any case, the gallery expects the price to be between $3,000 and $5,000.
For information on bidding or to view the digital catalog containing all 700 items available, please visit vegalleries.com.
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