Marc Davis

Date of Birth: March 30, 1913

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: January 12, 2000

Biography

Marc Davis was an influential American artist and animator, renowned for his work with The Walt Disney Company. Born in Bakersfield, California, Davis developed a passion for art at a young age. He attended the Kansas City Art Institute, the California School of Fine Arts, and the Otis Art Institute. In 1935, he joined Walt Disney Studios, where he became one of Disney’s “Nine Old Men”—the core group of animators responsible for many of the studio’s classic films. Davis contributed to the creation of iconic characters such as Snow White, Cinderella, Tinker Bell, and Cruella de Vil. His work extended beyond animation to include theme park design, playing a key role in the development of Disneyland attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion. Marc Davis’s legacy in the world of animation and theme park design continues to be celebrated, and his artistic influence is evident in countless Disney projects.

5 Interesting Facts about Marc Davis

1. Marc Davis was one of Disney’s “Nine Old Men,” the core group of animators who created many of the studio’s classic films.

2. He designed and animated some of Disney’s most iconic characters, including Tinker Bell from “Peter Pan” and Cruella de Vil from “101 Dalmatians.”

3. Davis played a significant role in the design of Disneyland attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion.

4. He was awarded the Disney Legend Award in 1989 for his contributions to the company.

5. Marc Davis had a passion for teaching and mentorship, and he influenced many young animators throughout his career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Marc Davis

1. “Animation is really what you do for the audience. It’s not the drawing you do for yourself.”

2. “All you’ve got in animation is a pencil and a piece of paper.”

3. “The best way to get started is to stop talking and begin doing.”

4. “Good ideas are hard to find. When you get one, don’t let it go.”

5. “If it can be imagined, it can be created.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Marc Davis’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Marc Davis had one child, a daughter named Alice Davis, who followed in his creative footsteps and became an accomplished costume designer, also contributing to Disney theme park attractions.