Call Out for Objects and Stories – Help Shape the New Public Art for East Barnwell

Do you have an object or a story that captures something meaningful about East Barnwell—your memories, your community, your everyday life?

Artist Shepherd Manyika is creating a series of sculptures for the new East Barnwell development. His work explores how everyday objects can hold personal and collective histories. He’s asking residents, past and present, to share items that reflect what we value, what we remember, and what we want to preserve for the future.

These donated objects will be cast or copied and transformed into artworks displayed throughout the new development—creating a sculptural portrait of East Barnwell shaped by the people who know it best.

What kind of objects can you contribute?

Your object might be a toy, a ball, a tool, a keepsake, or a household item – anything that tells a story about you, your family, or the community.

Object guidelines

• Maximum size: 40 cm
• Not too small, not too large, nothing too precious, as he will be using the object to create a mold for casting.
• Please note unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that all objects will be used, but all contributions will be appreciated and considered. All objects will be returned once casts are made.

What object will you put in?

Think of something that carries meaning—something that says “this is East Barnwell” in your eyes. It doesn’t need to be precious or perfect. It just needs to have a story.

How to submit your object?

• Email barnwelleast@gmail.com
• Include a photo of your object and a short summary of why you have selected the item to be part of the artwork.
• Include your email address (this is only for Shepherd to contact you to arrange collection and the return of the object).

Deadline for submissions 1st May 2026

If you’d like inspiration, you can explore Shepherd Manyika’s work here:http://cargocollective.com/shepherdmanyika

For further information about the project please visit resonance-cambridge.