FROM: Vinylmation 360 Published Mondays

A look at Epcot Center 82

Kelly looks at an Epcot Vinyl - the 3" Epcot Center 82 from the Park 4 series. A fantastic piece.

- by Kelly Firth, Oct 3, 2011

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Vinylmation 360: A look at Epcot Center 82
By Kelly Firth

One of my all-time favorite Vinylmations is the 3” Epcot Center 82 from the Park 4 blind boxed series. Designed by Rachael Sun, this vinyl is a perfect example of why I (and so many others!) enjoy Vinylmation.

Hardcore Disney fans know that in Epcot’s earlier years, each Future World pavilion had a specially designed symbol that represented it on maps, directional signs, and merchandise. You can still spot some of these symbols in the park today (check the gates at the front of the park, for starters!), and more recently on some retro Epcot merchandise. This year, some of the Epcot gift shops have been selling a t-shirt featuring patterns and colors similar to the Epcot Center 82 design.
The Epcot Center 82 vinyl is one of my favorite vinyls for a few different reasons.

1. It’s an Epcot vinyl! I absolutely adore Epcot and could spend an entire week or more enjoying all it has to offer.
   
2. It’s a retro vinyl! I am not as much of a knowledgeable Disney history buff as some are, but I try to learn what I can about attractions, shows, and other things I never got to see in the parks. I really appreciate this vinyl for the fact that it is a nod to the past.
   
3. It’s really colorful! The combination of colors on this vinyl turned out fabulously. It is one of my favorite vinyls to display-- Not just because I like it so much, but because it is easily spotted from a distance.
   
4. It’s really detailed! Besides the fact that this vinyl is very colorful, it is incredibly detailed. The patterns are fairly intricate, especially considering the artist only had a 3” canvas to work with.

So what exactly is featured on this little beauty? Mickey’s left ear has the symbol for Spaceship Earth on the front, and the symbol for Universe of Energy on the back. His right ear has the symbol for Epcot Center on the front, and the symbol for World of Motion on the back. The front of his face has the original Epcot Center font, along with the symbol for CommuniCore. The back of his head features the symbol for Journey Into Imagination above the “8” in 82, and the symbol for The Land can be found partially on the “2” in 82. These were the original logos for Epcot Center, along with a logo for World Showcase that was not included. A Spaceship Earth-esque pattern dominates the front of the body.

Epcot Center 82 is a retired vinyl, so you will have to trade for it or purchase it from someone. The last two on eBay sold for about $33, which is less than it was going for earlier this year.

What do you think about Epcot Center 82? Do you own it? Want to own it? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

On the last Monday of every month, I'll devote this column to your questions and my answers. You can leave questions here as comments or else send them directly to me.

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