Artist Reimagines Disney Princesses As Career Women

Illustrator Matt Burt drew what the Disney princesses would do if they had successful careers, and it’s everything

Disney princesses are role models for a ton of kids, but there’s a big problem with that. So many of the classic princesses make catching a man one of their primary goals, but an artist used his talent to point out that there’s more to life than getting married.

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What if those same princesses that so many kids look up to had real-life careers? What if instead of getting married to their Prince Charmings and riding off into their sunsets, they did important work that makes the world a better place?

That’s exactly what illustrator Matt Burt envisioned.

In a new collection created for his employer, Simple Thrifty Living, Burt imagined many of Disney’s classic princesses as powerful, successful career women. Yes, the results are just as magical as you would imagine.

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“I’ve seen numerous reimaginings of the princesses but not one like this — showing them as successful career women,” Burt told Scary Mommy. “To many people, the Disney princesses have become so much more than just characters in movies. I wanted to create these to inspire others in hopes that they can find a career that they love and a career that makes a difference.”

Elsa and Anna are climate change scientists.

“Elsa, Anna, and the citizens of Arendelle know a few things about the effects of climate change,” Burt wrote in his collection. “While their companion Olaf may love summer, the sun, and all things hot, Anna and Elsa recognize what a rising global temperature might mean. They have dedicated their careers to studying climate change and presenting accurate, well-sourced information.”

Snow White, meanwhile, is a therapist, drawing inspiration from her relationships with the Seven Dwarves.

“Snow White has always been known for being caring, thoughtful, and someone willing to lend a hand to those in need,” Burt wrote. “Using these strengths paired with hard work, she earned her doctorate in psychology and is one of the leaders in the field of mental health. She presents her research at conferences throughout the year but always takes time to provide the best care to her clients… whether they’re feeling happy, bashful, grumpy, or anything else. It’s her mission to not only help her clients but also support other mental health professionals so they can offer their clients top-notch care.”

Then there’s Mulan, the Title IX attorney, because of course.

“After experiencing discrimination both personally and in the military, Mulan turned her sights on a law degree, graduating with the highest honors. She now fights for equality on university campuses, ensuring that men and women are given the same treatment and opportunities. With all the strength of a raging fire, she advocates for those who have faced adversity due to their gender.”

And Belle, the university chancellor.

“There was always much more in store for Belle than a provincial life. Inspired by her love of books and knowledge, Belle went into academia. After receiving her doctorate in education, Belle has risen to the level of chancellor at a major university. She is committed to affordable and equal education for all.”

The careers for each princess are so on point and perfect. When it came to coming up with them, Burt said it was a team effort.

“I worked with my coworkers at Simple Thrifty Living to determine what careers the princesses might have based off of their personalities and the events of the movies,” he explained. “We knew we wanted these women to be in strong roles so it was a matter of not only choosing a career that would fit them from a backstory standpoint but also one that would fit the theme of the project.”

Seriously, perfect. Check out Pocahontas, who now heads up a nonprofit fighting for environmental conservation.

“Pocahontas knows that we’re all connected to each other and is committed to protecting nature and what is just around the riverbend. She heads a non-profit organization committed to preserving and protecting the environment. Through a combination of activism, action, and promoting awareness, she fights for protection and sustainable use of our natural resources.”

And Cinderella, who is an animal rights activist.

“While she has her Fairy Godmother to thank, Cinderella would not be where she is without the help of her animal companions. She believes where there is kindness there is goodness, and it’s her heart’s wish to see animals treated with respect. She used her position of influence to found a non-profit organization committed to promoting animal rights.”

And of course Tiana ended up a James Beard award-winning chef. We definitely saw that one coming.

“Growing up and being inspired by her father’s love of cooking, Tiana has always known what she has wanted to do. She now stands at the top of the culinary world, winning the James Beard Award and owning one of the most popular restaurants in the country. Every day she digs a little deeper, trying out new dishes and experimenting with new recipes and flavors.”

Ariel is now a pop star and record producer, which is just as fitting.

“Ariel has always excelled in music, having natural talent and a passion for singing. Considered the best of her talented sisters, Ariel took her skills and made it her career. She went multi-platinum with her single, ‘Part of Your World,’ and now both writes her own music and is a producer at her own label, Seven Seas Records.”

And Moana? When you’re that connected to the sea, the Navy just might be the place for you.

“The sea has always called to Moana. What it taught her is that she is a natural leader, guiding her people and returning them to their ancient voyaging traditions. Using these strengths, Moana has excelled in the Navy, rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. She has been awarded multiple honors during her service, such as two Navy Achievement medals and a National Defense Service Medal. With such a successful start, there’s no telling how far she’ll go in her career.”

Jasmine, who always considered all people equal regardless of their background and social standing, is now a United Nations ambassador.

“Jasmine has always fought for what’s right and for change where it is needed — she’s not a prize to be won. A natural politician, she now advocates for her country of Agrabah at the United Nations. One of her primary initiatives is protecting women’s rights by ensuring that women are treated fairly across the globe.”

And in probably the most hilarious iteration in the entire collection, Aurora, also known as Sleeping Beauty, is founder and CEO of a coffee company.

“Aurora knows how hard it is to wake up. After being awoken from her enchanted sleep, Aurora made it her career to help others stay awake — and what better way to do that than coffee! Aurora is the founder and CEO of Spinning Wheel Coffee, one of the leading coffee chains in the nation.”

Burt said he’s been a little surprised at how many people have connected with his drawings.

“The reaction to the artwork has been positive! I’m humbled that so many people have enjoyed them,” he said.

Overall, he’s glad he created something positive that makes the princesses into even better role models for kids.

“The Disney princesses have become more than just characters in movies for many people,” he explained. “They’ve become icons and influential women and it’s important for them to be portrayed as strong women both in the movies and outside of them. I hope people are inspired by them to follow their dreams and achieve success.”

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