San jose -- Thousands of people came on Saturday, September 10, 2005 to The Disney Gallery in New Orleans Square at Disneyland to see Thomas Kinkade's newest release, "Disneyland 50th Anniversary," and to have their limited edition pieces signed by Thomas Kinkade. Mr. Kinkade spent the afternoon in the park to celebrate the release of this new image and meet with collectors. As part of his visit to Southern California, Thomas Kinkade also visited the Children's Hospital of Orange County, where he taught a group of children how to draw.

Thomas Kinkade was selected by Disney as one of the artists to commemorate Disneyland's 50th Anniversary. The original of "Disneyland 50th Anniversary" was on display at The Disney Gallery in New Orleans Square in Disneyland during the event. Standard Numbered and Artist Proof editions of the painting are now available for sale exclusively at the Disneyland Resort. The Gallery Proof edition of the image is available through Thomas Kinkade Signature Galleries nationwide. For more information, please visit www.thomaskinkade.com.

For his inspiration, Mr. Kinkade traveled to Disneyland in 2004 to capture Disneyland's most recognized symbol, Sleeping Beauty Castle. He spent 10 hours at the park, drawing sketches and painting a Plein Air study of the Castle. He then returned to his studio in Northern California and used those sketches and drafts to create an immense painting that commemorates the Castle on Disneyland's 50th anniversary. The painting memorializes Sleeping Beauty Castle at dusk in all of its full anniversary regalia, and depicts the excitement and nostalgia of family trips to Disneyland.

This is the first collaboration between Thomas Kinkade and Disney, and Mr. Kinkade could not be more excited, stating that, "When the Disneyland 50th anniversary gala was announced, I jumped at the chance to paint this place of joyous memories. How many children have stood at this very spot with their eyes wide with wonder at their first glimpse of Sleeping Beauty Castle since Disneyland opened 50 years ago? I was one of them, and I have wonderful memories of my visits to Disneyland."

About The Thomas Kinkade Company
The Thomas Kinkade Company publishes the work of Thomas Kinkade and distributes his art and related collectibles through independently owned galleries worldwide, an extensive network of branded and licensed dealers, and strategic marketing relationships with more than 60 licensees. The company's primary products are canvas and paper reproductions that feature Mr. Kinkade's artistic unique use of light and his peaceful and inspiring themes. Mr. Kinkade, known as the "Painter of Light(TM)," is the most collected living artist in the U.S. today. For more information, please visit the company's web site at www.thomaskinkade.com.