Michael Reyes, AKA MR. Eyes, Leaving Gideon’s Bakehouse
Michael Reyes, the brilliant creative mind behind Gideon’s Bakehouse’s unmistakable brand, is stepping away from the company.
In an Instagram post, Reyes, also known as Mr. Eyes, announced that he has done all he can for the bakery and “now it’s time I do the same for myself.”
What comes next isn’t entirely clear. Reyes said he’s not sure yet either, though he did tease “a surprise or two.”
Reyes’ artwork is instantly recognizable, featuring characters with large, expressive eyes. Guests who’ve visited Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs have no doubt felt those eyes on them while waiting to purchase half-pound cookies and cakes. For us, the bakery’s fun, gothic atmosphere is as much a draw as the treats we leave with.
So yes, we’re bummed knowing we won’t see new Mr. Eyes creations the next time we visit that little shop.
Here is Reyes’ complete Instagram post:
Hello, friends.
As many of you know, I have been a part of the Gideon’s Bakehouse family for well over 10 years. In fact, my tenure goes back to when there were just two of us. In that time, my involvement grew from concept phone calls to quick logo and branding designs, to eventually fulfilling a dream by working on a project located at Walt Disney World. Something I never could have anticipated. Merely saying I’m grateful for the opportunity feels small and deeply inadequate.
Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and sharing a bit of myself with so many of you. I am always astounded by the kindness and generosity you continue to show a miserable old fool. Saying I love you all might sound a bit crazy, but I never claimed to be sane. I love you all!
That said, it’s with a heavy bit of sadness and a great deal of worry that I say my time with Gideon’s has come to a close. Obviously, this isn’t an easy announcement to make. I’ve poured every ounce of my soul into every last inch of Gideon’s, and walking away feels like I’m leaving a part of myself behind. But in life, growth is crucial. I have done all I can to help Gideon’s grow, and now it’s time I do the same for myself.
Lastly. Steve [Lewis, Gideon’s Bakehouse owner], thank you! Your belief and trust made all of this happen. I hope that my gratitude is expressed by the level of care and anxiety that went into everything we worked on. Agubadijádzs!
So, what’s next? Well, I can’t say too much just yet because I’m not entirely sure. What I can promise is a lot of new little peopsels [sp] and maybe a surprise or two.
Thank you all so very much for continuing to bear with me while I sort through the next steps of life. If I haven’t said it enough, you all mean everything to me.
All the best,
-M
We can’t wait to see what Mr. Eyes comes up with next.
Read more: Six Ravens Set to Open This Summer at Disney Springs
