Disney World to host exhibit of George W. Bush paintings

Former President George W. Bush’s paintings are going to Disney World. 

EPCOT, one of the theme parks at Disney’s resort in Orlando, Fla., announced Wednesday it soon will be home to a special exhibit of Bush’s artwork.

“Portraits of Courage: A Commander’s Tribute to America’s Warriors” will feature more than 60 paintings from Bush of “service members and veterans who have served our nation with honor since 9/11, and whom the president has come to know personally since leaving office.”

The exhibit from the George W. Bush Institute will be on display for a year inside EPCOT’s American Adventure Pavilion beginning June 9.

Each piece of art will be accompanied by a story penned by Bush about the veteran depicted. The exhibit will also highlight resources to support those serving in the military since Sept. 11, 2001. 

Ken Hersh, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, said in a statement that he hoped visitors to the Disney exhibit will “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.”

It’s not the first time that Bush’s paintings have hit the road. In 2019, the portraits went on display at the Kennedy Center as part of an exhibit honoring service members. 

The 77-year-old former commander in chief picked up a penchant for painting after leaving the White House in 2009. He said in 2013 that he was taking weekly painting lessons.