Meaning: The quote you provided is from Marc Davis, an American artist and animator who played a significant role in the development of Disney's animated films and theme park attractions. Marc Davis is particularly known for his work on iconic Disney characters like Cinderella, Tinker Bell, and Maleficent, as well as for his contributions to beloved attractions at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion. The quote reflects his creative process and the early stages of his involvement in the Pirates of the Caribbean project.

In the quote, Davis refers to "sketches" that he created at the outset of the Pirates project, indicating that these drawings were instrumental in shaping the direction of the endeavor. It is evident that Davis faced a period of exploration and experimentation as he sought to define his vision for the project. The mention of "the very beginning" suggests that these sketches were pivotal in establishing the visual and conceptual foundation for the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

The timeframe referenced by Davis, "the early sixties... maybe 61 or 62," provides context for the historical and cultural backdrop against which the Pirates of the Caribbean project unfolded. This period coincides with a significant era of innovation and expansion for Disney, as the company was evolving its creative output and expanding its theme park offerings. Understanding the temporal setting in which Davis was working allows for a deeper appreciation of the context in which his artistic endeavors took place.

It is important to note that the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, which premiered at Disneyland in 1967, represented a departure from the traditional theme park experiences of the time. With its immersive storytelling, intricate set design, and lifelike animatronic characters, the attraction set a new standard for themed entertainment. Davis' involvement in the project underscores his role as a trailblazing artist who contributed to the evolution of theme park design and narrative-driven experiences.

Furthermore, Davis's mention of "trying to find a direction for myself" suggests a personal journey of creative discovery. This sentiment humanizes the artistic process, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties that even accomplished artists like Davis encounter as they embark on new creative endeavors. It also speaks to the importance of perseverance and self-exploration in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

Overall, Marc Davis's quote provides valuable insight into the early stages of the Pirates of the Caribbean project and the artistic journey undertaken by a visionary creator. It offers a glimpse into the creative process, the historical context of Disney's creative expansion, and the personal quest for artistic direction. Through his words, Davis invites us to appreciate the dedication and ingenuity required to bring a groundbreaking attraction to life, as well as the individual artist's pursuit of creative fulfillment.