The fun-loving characters of Disney have always had the ability to whisk me away to a childhood moment that reflects the joys of fun and friends. The genius of taking characters and giving them personality and form is what I relate to as an artist.

I once knew someone who was quite like Donald Duck. I have tried to be like Mickey Mouse, who has always portrayed the essence of friendship. These are the cartoon characters that made me laugh from deep inside my belly. Mickey and Friends Skating in Central Park reminds me of the times I’d try something new. It was always best experienced with buddies, cheering and exploring adventures together. Those memories always make me smile. Winters in New York provide some of the most enchanting holiday backdrops where friends and family can gather to make warm memories on chilly days.

Years ago while visiting Central Park after a storm, I felt compelled to get out on the ice and give it a whirl. As I slipped around on the ice, somewhere in the back of my mind I could hear the laughter of friends from the past—bringing back the warmth of happy times spent with good friends through all the seasons of life. My wish in painting Mickey and Friends Skating in Central Park is that it will remind us that good fun is always better when enjoyed with friends.