Animodules are 8’ high modular sculptures created by the Barat Foundation and artist/Newark school teacher, Terry Brewin. The giant sculptures, painted by school children working with artists, debuted in 2008 in the First Annual Newark Arts Parade, and continue to lead that festivity, now in its third year. Since their first appearance in the Arts Parade, additional Animodules have been created in schools, museums, and community organizations, including the Newark Museum, the Greater Newark Conservancy, Communities in Schools, Central High School, the Newark Boys Chorus School, and the Newark Early College High School. They also travel to add their joy to large events including the Lincoln Park Music Festival. Animodule fever has spread throughout the city and giant 8-foot high colorful sculptures are appearing all over the Newark!

Animodules represent a new tradition in Newark: old and new, they will continue their annual march down Broad Street to herald in the city’s Open Doors Art Festival, a celebration of Newark’s Renaissance – bringing together the entire city in an explosion of creativity and festivity, celebrating the potential and exuberance of the city’s youth.

Along with creating these art pieces, students are being guided by the Barat Foundation through Joseph Campbell’s “The Hero’s Journey” program, wherein youth write the mythology of their “Animodule” – where he(she) comes from, their call to adventure, their magic helper, their return to their community with knowledge gained. These giant sculptures represent the dreams and aspirations of the children of the city.

The colorful, full-size sculptures can be seen in the Atrium of Central High School, the lobby of the Newark Boys Chorus School, the entrance of the Newark Early College High School, the entrance of the YEES Alternative Education Center, and in the teaching garden of the Greater Newark Conservancy.

Are you interested in an Animodule-Making project for your school or organization?

Contact us today.