Epcot will exhibit paintings by George W. Bush this June
Beginning June 9, 2024 at Epcot, guests can see artwork by President George W. Bush in an exhibit honoring veterans and military members.
“Portraits of Courage” by George W. Bush
This unique exhibit, titled “Portraits of Courage: A Commander’s Tribute to America’s Warriors,” will be found in The American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla.
The exhibit will stay displayed for 12 months. It will honor service members and veterans who have served the United States of America since 9/11. There will be more than 60 full-color portraits, all painted by President Bush and featuring people he has personally gotten to know.
Every painting tells a story. However, these paintings will also each include an actual inspiring story of the service member or veteran during their time when they served their country. In addition to honoring these service members and veterans, there will also be resources and information available to help other veterans receive any care they may need, including no-cost, high-quality mental and brain health care.
Disney’s History of Honoring Veterans
“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.”
Walt and Roy O. Disney themselves both served the U.S. in World War I. Today, Disney has a Heroes Work Here employment initiative and donates to non-profit organizations supporting veteran and military families. At the parks, Disney offer discounts to these families and honors all who have served with daily flag retreat ceremonies.
“Leadership, Service, and Sacrifice”
The George W. Bush Institute is a “solution-oriented nonpartisan policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies.” Its goal is to improve lives at home and abroad.
“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. “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 servicemembers and their families face when transitioning out of the military.”
For more information about the resources mentioned above, visit Veteran Check-In online or Heroes Work Here.
Check out more of what’s been going on at Epcot in a new documentary by Nat Geo, “Epcot Becoming: Inside the Transformation,” coming soon to Disney+.
