The Muskegon Museum of Art is set to premiere a landmark exhibition titled “HerStory of Animation: Mary Blair & Beyond,” running from June 6, 2025, through September 27, 2026. Curated by animation historian Mindy Johnson, the show features production artwork, rare films, and studio artifacts from over a century of female contributions to the field. Highlights include works by early pioneers like Helena Smith Dayton and Bessie Mae Kelley, alongside modern icons such as Mary Blair and Oscar-winner Brenda Chapman.
This exhibition is significant for its role in correcting the male-dominated historical narrative of the animation industry. By showcasing newly uncovered research and the work of women who led technical and artistic revolutions—from pre-cinematic shorts to digital Disney features—the museum provides a more inclusive look at the evolution of the medium. It elevates the status of animation as a fine art while honoring the often-overlooked women who shaped global visual culture.