Long before he became famous for his work with Disney, Manuel Hernandez was a skilled and respected artist. Traditionally trained and naturally talented, Hernandez cites J. C. Leyendecker, Dean Cornwell, and Norman Rockwell as his inspiration. With these renowned contemporary artists influencing his style, he honed and improved his artistic skills until they became almost unmatched. He was soon a highly coveted illustrator.

Manny Hernandez was then asked to contribute his style to the legacy of Disney illustration and animation. With a skillful hand that satisfies even the most critical Disney art traditionalists, he lends some of his own perspective to the art he creates for Disney Fine Art. Imbuing the scenes he creates with themes of Americana, he has developed unique blend of the internationally beloved classic characters and the artistic style that has inspired him throughout his whole life.