The Art History Behind Disney's Sleeping Beauty: A Guide through Some of NYC’s Museums
- Dr. Lauren Kilroy-Ewbank
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
From medieval manuscripts and unicorns to renaissance landscape paintings and modern design, Disney’s Sleeping Beauty is filled with nods to real art that inspired its unique look.
That's right!
Discover the art that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty
I’ve been creating a beautifully designed guide that takes you on a journey through the art history behind Sleeping Beauty, highlighting artworks you can visit at The Met, the Cloisters, and the Morgan Library and Museum.
I used to live in New York City and work as a professor in the City University of New York (CUNY), so I spent A LOT of time in New York City museums, and beyond that in other professional capacities. I've survived the maze that is The Met, and I love taking people through it in fun, interesting, and unexpected ways. Plus, I have been fascinated by the art history behind Disney's Sleeping Beauty for decades, often talking about it in my college courses and other Disney nerd friends, but rarely in a format that brings that knowlede and insight to many more people.
There is so much art too see in New York City—too much! I thought this would be a unique and exciting way to experience some incredible works of art from the medieval, renaissance, 19th century, and modern period. Plus, while you get to look closely at some gems in art history, you also get to learn more about Disney artists like Eyvind Earle and the history behind Sleeping Beauty.
Inside the Sleeping Beauty Art Guide
Whether you’re a Disney fan, an art history lover, or someone planning your next museum day, this guide offers a fun way to experience art. It brings together:
Medieval tapestries that inspired the film
Illuminated manuscripts with pages that feel straight out of the opening scenes
Objects and paintings that inspired characters and scenes
and much more
Even if you can't use the guide in person, it is also an excellent option for virtual travel and experiences. You'll be able to read it or listen to it, and it will have handy hyperlinks and museum-visiting tips. I really can't wait to share it with you!
I am so close to having it ready for publication. For now, you can sign up for my newsletter to get notifications about when the big launch day is, behind-the-scenes fun, and even special deals and giveaways.
Art History Behind Disney's Sleeping Beauty . . . and other Disney movies and parks
Even if you aren't a Sleeping Beauty fan or a NYC fan, take heart! I have more of these guides underway, as well as longer, in-depth books about art history and Disneyland.
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