Downtown Disney 'Black Panther' Tribute Beloved By Fans

Mission Viejo CA

02 October, 2020

3:23 PM

Description

ANAHEIM, CA — What's in a mural? The heart behind this new Downtown Disney District display is evident to all who witness it. Artist Nikkolas Smith, a former Disney Imagineer, wanted to pay tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, star of the "Black Panther" movies, and Avengers character. The art installation sits in front of the old ESPN Zone. Smith, a resident of Los Angeles, currently is a children's book author, a Hollywood film illustrator and an Artivist, he says. He focuses on creating captivating art to spark important conversations on social justice. This mural is no exception. "As a former Disney Imagineer, I had the honor of working on a major children's hospital initiative and Avengers Campus as my final two assignments," Smith says. "Seeing Chadwick's heart for people in-person, and later discovering his courageous battle with cancer, I was inspired to create this tribute to honor his life and legacy." "To us, he was and will always be T'Challa," Smith added. "Long Live The King." The spot is becoming a beloved backdrop by fans visiting the Downtown Disney District.