Pixar’s newest release, Elio, tells the heartwarming story of a boy who accidentally becomes Earth’s ambassador to the galaxy. Now, fans can go beyond the big screen with The Art of Elio, the latest addition to the acclaimed Art of series. This beautifully curated book dives deep into the visual development, design inspirations, and emotional storytelling behind the film.
Through concept art, storyboards, and exclusive interviews, readers are invited into the creative process that brought Elio to life. D23 recently sat down with Maddie Sharafian, one of the film’s directors, and Brian Larsen, story supervisor, to uncover what makes both the movie and the book so special.
Elio’s Story Shapes Its Style
At the heart of Elio is a theme of belonging. According to Larsen, the character’s loneliness and desire for connection served as a foundation for the film’s visuals. The creative team designed challenges for Elio on Earth to contrast with the vibrant acceptance he finds among the stars. This emotional journey is evident not only in the narrative but also in every brushstroke of the concept art within the book.
Color as a Storytelling Tool
Color isn’t just decorative in Elio—it’s integral to the story. As Sharafian explains, the film’s color keys reveal how specific hues enhance mood and meaning. Green signals alienation. Purple evokes friendship with Glordon, Elio’s new alien companion. And a swirl of stained-glass tones conveys the hope Elio feels when welcomed into the Communiverse.
Inspiration from the Unseen
The alien designs in Elio are wonderfully strange, yet oddly familiar. Sharafian notes that the team drew inspiration from deep sea creatures and microscopic organisms—creating a world that’s otherworldly but grounded in natural beauty. “Some are graceful and elegant, others are just plain dopey,” she laughs. This diversity makes the Communiverse feel real, relatable, and wildly imaginative.
A Galaxy Inspired by a Disco Ball
Even the setting of the Communiverse has an unexpected muse. Sharafian reveals that the creative team often compared it to a disco ball—glittering, suspended in a nebula, and impossible to ignore. That playful visual concept shaped the world Elio explores and enhanced the sense of awe the film strives to evoke.
A Spark of Collaboration
Bringing Elio to life required a true team effort. Larsen fondly recalls brainstorming sessions where a single idea could ignite the room. “Out of the blue, someone would say something unexpected, and it’s like lightning. The whole room lights up.”
For Sharafian, the project came full circle. As a young artist, she pored over Pixar’s Art of books and dreamed of contributing to one. Now, she hopes The Art of Elio inspires the next generation: “I was moved to pick up a sketchbook, and I hope someone else will be, too.”
Where to Find The Art of Elio
The Art of Elio is available wherever Disney and Pixar books are sold. And don’t miss Elio, premiering in theaters this weekend, June 20. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, animation fan, or Pixar collector, this behind-the-scenes journey is one you won’t want to miss.
