See How An Illustrator Portrays Disney Princesses As Modern-Day Professionals
Ever wondered what Disney princesses would look like as successful women?
Disney princesses usually get remembered for castles, curses, and happily ever afters, but this artist gave them a very different kind of spotlight.
Illustrator Matt Burt reimagined the characters as modern professionals, turning familiar fairy-tale icons into scientists, lawyers, executives, and performers. The result is playful, polished, and a little surprising, especially when each job seems to fit the character so well.
Here is how Burt and his team gave the princesses careers that feel fresh, fitting, and easy to talk about.
Disney's Career Women.
Matt BurtAnna and Elsa Are Scientists Specializing in Climate Change.
The two sisters and the citizens of Arendelle are aware of the potential consequences of climate change. While Olaf loves summer and everything hot, Elsa and Anna recognize the impacts of continuously rising global temperatures.
The sisters want to help the world, so they have dedicated themselves to the study of climate change as scientists.
Matt BurtMulan Is a Title IX Defense Lawyer.
A law degree came next for Mulan after she experienced discrimination as a person and a member of the military. She graduated with the highest honors.
Nowadays, she focuses on fighting for equality between men and women. Her experiences inspired her to ensure that both genders receive the same opportunities and treatment.
The lawyer moves with the strength of a raging fire, advocating for individuals who face inequalities because of their gender.
Matt Burt
Merida Is an Olympian Competing in Two Events: Archery and Equestrian.
Olympic champion Merida competed in two events, winning gold medals in both archery and equestrian.
Matt Burt
Jasmine Is a United Nations Ambassador.
Jasmine is a politician fighting for what is right in her country, Agrabah. One of her initiatives is to protect the rights of women around the world.
She serves as an advocate at the United Nations, fighting for change wherever it is needed.
Matt Burt
Pocahontas Leads a Nonprofit Environmental Organization.
As someone who understands that everything is connected, Pocahontas fights to protect Mother Earth, particularly promoting sustainability.
Matt Burt
This is similar to the 27-year-old who chose graphic design over medical school after clashing with her parents.
Belle Is a Chancellor at a University.
Belle desires more than what provincial life has to offer. She became a member of academia because of her love for books and thirst for knowledge.
After earning her doctorate, she became the highest official at a major university—a chancellor. Belle dedicates herself to providing affordable and equal education for every individual.
Matt Burt
Aurora Is a CEO at a Coffee Company.
Aurora understands how challenging it is to wake up. So, after rousing from her deep slumber, she decided to open Spinning Wheel Coffee.
Matt Burt
Tiana Is a Restaurateur and a Top-Class Chef.
Tiana, inspired by her father's love for cooking, knew what she wanted to do from the start. She is a world-renowned chef who has received multiple awards.
She continuously searches for new dishes, which is why she has been experimenting with a variety of new flavors and recipes.
Matt Burt
Cinderella Promotes Animal Rights as an Activist.
She may be very thankful for her Fairy Godmother's gifts, but she wouldn't be the person she is today without the help of her animal friends. Now, she leads a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about animal rights.
Matt Burt
Ariel Is a Pop Singer and Record Producer.
Ariel has always had an innate talent for music and a passion for singing. So, she took advantage of her skills and turned them into a career.
Matt Burt
Moana Is a Navy Officer.
A profession that involves the sea is Moana's calling. Using her strength as a leader, she has risen through the ranks and is now a lieutenant commander.
During her service, she has received various honors, so there is no doubt she will be successful in her career.
Matt Burt
Snow White Is a Prominent Psychologist.
Snow White is known for being loving and thoughtful. She is always willing to help those in need.
With her strengths and empathetic personality, she completed graduate school. Now, she is a leading professional in mental health.
Matt Burt
Rapunzel Is a Doctor—A Neurologist, to Be Specific.
Rapunzel's innate ability to heal led her to study at medical school, where she eventually earned her doctorate.
She specializes in neurology and is now the country's leading expert. She makes it her mission to save as many patients as she can and deliver the best healthcare.
Matt Burt
Matt Burt, the Illustrator Behind Them All.
Matt Burt
Burt Not Only Drew Them Excellently, but His Team Also Gave Them Roles That Were Truly Suitable to Their Background Stories and Personalities.
Like many people his age, Disney movies were a significant part of his upbringing.
He remembers the princesses fondly. As he grew into adulthood, he began to appreciate the artwork and the effort that went into animating them.
What do you think about the princesses' professions? Did the final results match how you imagined them to be?
Want another princess-level career sacrifice? Read how she canceled her parents’ vacation to protect her job.