Walt Disney artist Carlson dies at 84

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Joyce Carlson, whose work with the Walt Disney Co. included a New York World's Fair attraction, has died in Orlando, Fla., at the age of 84.

After enjoying a life that included spending 54 years creating Walt Disney films such as "Peter Pan" and the notable 1964 "It's a Small World" theme park attraction, Carlson succumbed to cancer this week, the Los Angeles Times said Saturday.

Through her work with the World's Fair attraction, particularly with the ride's numerous singing dolls, Carlson earned a strong reputation in the artistic community.

"Without a doubt, Joyce influenced a whole group of us about the importance of detail," Disney World's director of show design, Patrick Brennan, said. "It's all in the detail. And the authenticity. And color … She would have you remix a color 10 times if it was required. You learned that it wasn't arbitrary."

The Times said Carlson, who died Wednesday, has already been declared an official Disney Legend for her impressive contributions to the entertainment company.