When we started Pixar Post back in 2012, we never imagined that one day we’d not only meet Bob Pauley, the designer of Buzz Lightyear, but also have the incredible opportunity to learn to draw Buzz from him personally – a feat that proved very challenging.
This Toy Story 5 press event was unlike any other Pixar event, as it was held at the Disneyland Resort. We were able to screen the film and interview the filmmakers (more to come soon), ride ALL of the Pixar-themed rides, and of course, meet Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and Woody.
One of the true highlights of the trip was a special drawing masterclass with Bob Pauley, who guided us step by step through drawing Buzz while also sharing stories from the character’s original development at Pixar.
Bob Pauley is currently a production designer at Pixar and is the artist behind creating one of animation’s most iconic characters. But well beyond his incredible artistic talent, there is simply something special about Bob himself. He is warm, funny, and genuinely kind-hearted. Every time we’ve had the opportunity to speak with him, it feels less like a formal interview and more like catching up with an old friend.
Watching Bob sketch with such speed and precision was amazing. It’s easy to forget that he’s been living in the Toy Story universe for 30-plus years. Everyone in the crowd looked down at their sketches (nowhere near his level) and shared a laugh with Bob, making the moment feel even more special and personal.
Thankfully, towards the end of the class, he also showed us how to draw new characters, Smarty Pants and Lilypad. Which, I might add, are quite a bit easier to draw!
Experiences like this are exactly why we started Pixar Post all those years ago. To go from lifetime Pixar fans to sitting in a room learning directly from Bob Pauley was truly surreal. Moments like these are ones we’ll never forget, and we’re incredibly grateful to have been part of such a memorable experience.
It’s a reminder that it’s not only the films themselves that can pull at your heartstrings, but the creativity, passion, and kindness of those who make them that can really leave a lasting impact.
Toy Story 5 hits theaters June 19, 2026.
