855 · Tony Baxter, Figment, and the Art of Imagination at Disney
Mon Jan 26 2026
855 · Tony Baxter, Figment, and the Art of Imagination at Disney
How did Figment become one of the most beloved and enduring symbols in Disney Parks history?
Disney Legend Tony Baxter reflects on Figment, imagination, and creative legacy in a rare conversation recorded at EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts. Joined by Michael Young, CEO of Disney Fine Art, this episode explores how Disney art and storytelling connect generations of fans.
Tony Baxter is one of the most influential creative leaders in Disney theme park history. Over his decades at Walt Disney Imagineering, he helped shape iconic experiences including Journey Into Imagination, Figment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Star Tours, Splash Mountain, and the creative vision behind Disneyland Paris.
In this episode, Tony looks back on imagination as the emotional heart of EPCOT, the mentors who shaped his creative philosophy, and the personal artwork he created years before many of his most famous Disney projects ever existed. He also shares what he hopes fans feel when they live with a piece of Disney art in their home.
Lou is also joined by Michael Young, who offers insight into Disney Fine Art’s role in preserving artistic legacy, curating storytellers across generations, and why Disney art is about far more than what hangs on a wall.
This is a conversation about imagination, mentorship, legacy, and the enduring emotional connection Disney fans have with art and storytelling.
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855 · Tony Baxter, Figment, and the Art of Imagination at Disney How did Figment become one of the most beloved and enduring symbols in Disney Parks history? Disney Legend Tony Baxter reflects on Figment, imagination, and creative legacy in a rare conversation recorded at EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts. Joined by Michael Young, CEO of Disney Fine Art, this episode explores how Disney art and storytelling connect generations of fans. Tony Baxter is one of the most influential creative leaders in Disney theme park history. Over his decades at Walt Disney Imagineering, he helped shape iconic experiences including Journey Into Imagination, Figment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Star Tours, Splash Mountain, and the creative vision behind Disneyland Paris. In this episode, Tony looks back on imagination as the emotional heart of EPCOT, the mentors who shaped his creative philosophy, and the personal artwork he created years before many of his most famous Disney projects ever existed. He also shares what he hopes fans feel when they live with a piece of Disney art in their home. Lou is also joined by Michael Young, who offers insight into Disney Fine Art’s role in preserving artistic legacy, curating storytellers across generations, and why Disney art is about far more than what hangs on a wall. This is a conversation about imagination, mentorship, legacy, and the enduring emotional connection Disney fans have with art and storytelling. 📣 Comment in the WDW Radio Clubhouse or 📞 Call the Voicemail: 407-900-9391 ✈️ Looking to visit a Disney Park, Disney Cruise Line, or any vacation destination around the world? Let our friends at Mouse Fan Travel help you with expert planning at no cost to you! - visit MouseFanTravel.com 📬 Stay Connected:- Subscribe for email updates + get my FREE Disney book! - Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube 🎧 Explore More:WDWRadio.com - Blog, archives, podcasts, and moreWDW Radio Nation - Support the show and unlock rewardsWDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesday nightsEvents & Cruises - Join us for group trips and in-person meetups!LouMongello.com - Creator or solopreneur? Turn your passion into your profession with coaching, courses, and events, including our Momentum events in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote speaker who shares how to leverage lessons from Disney on customer service, experience, and...