(Walt Disney Studios, 1940) Original story concept painting by noted Disney story director and character designer James Bodrero for the 'Pastoral Symphony' segment of Fantasia. The amusing scene shows a faun seated atop a young unicorn and pretending to play its horn like a flute. Accomplished in gouache on artist board measuring 6 x 8.75, the lower right corner of which is signed by Bodrero, “FB.” In fine condition, with a uniform box of toning from prior display.
James Bodrero (1900-1980) was a Belgian-born American storyboard artist, character designer, and illustrator who worked for Disney Studios from 1938 to 1946. When he joined the Art Department, Bodrero became a story director and character designer. There, he created Dumbo the elephant, the ostrich who danced in Fantasia, and José Carioca, the parrot. In 1941, he was part of Walt Disney's goodwill tour of South America, where the group gained inspiration to create the package films Saludos Amigos and The Three Caballeros. However, Bodrero was one of many employees that was let go in a mass layoff in 1946. Before his departure, he was working on character development drawings for Peter Pan in its early stages, such as early concepts for Captain Hook, and ‘The Wind in the Willows’ segment of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.
