Museum design in Disney movies

Abstract

In this study, an analysis was conducted on how Disney has incorporated the idea of the museum as a space and heritage collection into its classic films and cinematic productions. This multinational company in culture and entertainment has, for decades and among audiences worldwide, generated a visual imaginary directly linked to an ideology and behavioural patterns characteristic of the North American sociocultural framework. The research focused on the transmission of the “museum” environment in these productions, examining how this concept was addressed and identifying what model of museum or collection interested the screenwriters and directors of the films in which such institutions appeared. It also explored certain contrasts with non-Disney films to create a comparative analysis from the perspective of Art Education. In order to adequately approach the study, scenes and moments from Disney films that conveyed an idea of a museum or collection were selected to determine how this information was communicated -both iconographic and from a sociocultural and pedagogical perspective-making the findings relevant for both teachers and students. This research was strongly influenced by visual culture, emphasizing the need to foster visual literacy among school audiences. It was observed that museums were not common settings in Disney films, yet the brand did present a specific concept of the museum in its productions. This led to a reflection on the educational power of such institutions, especially now that ICOM has reformulated the definition of the museum institution.