Building Thrills  
Rocket Raccoon is part of the Guardians of the Galaxy ride at Disney California Adventure.

Oshua Sudock/Newscom/ZUMAPRESS.com (Disney Land); ©Disney (all other photos)

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She Brings Your Favorite Rides to Life!

Robots are hiding all over Disney’s theme parks. Meet Tara von der Linden, an artist who makes them.

    When you think of an artist, you might imagine someone sitting alone in a studio. Maybe they’re painting a canvas or drawing a cartoon. But there are many types of artists, making all kinds of art—including robots! 

    That’s what Tara von der Linden does as a Disney Imagineer. Imagineers are the people who dream up and build Disney’s theme parks. Tara’s job is to make robotic versions of Disney characters. She uses computers to design them, then works with a team to bring them to life.

    We talked to Tara about what it’s like to be an artist who makes robots.

©Disney

First Step
Tara uses a computer to design her robots.

©Disney

Final Product 
Tara created this robot Rocket Raccoon—he moves and talks!

    What is a typical day like for you?
    My days look very different depending on where I am on a project. At the beginning, I’ll be at my desk planning how the characters will look. Later on, I’ll be at the theme park working with a team to build them.

    Were you interested in robots as a kid?
    No! But I was always interested in telling stories. When I was a kid, I told stories through drawing. When I got older, I told stories by making puppets. Now I’m still telling stories, but I’m doing it with robots!

    Your job uses both art and science. How do those two things work together?
    They’re actually very similar to me. Sometimes I’m using art to draw characters. Other times I’m using science to make them work. Both of these tasks require creativity and problem-solving skills.

    What has been your proudest moment as an Imagineer?
    It was amazing bringing my family to the park to see my work! 

    What would you say to a kid who loves art and wants to make it a career? 
    Learn many different skills! You have to know more than just how to draw or paint. And pay attention in science class. I use science every day to figure out how to make my characters move.

    What’s it like working at Disney?
    It’s just as fun as you would think it is!

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