Aku Dreamer Statue
Bringing a Digital Icon to Life

Inspired by a young boy's question about Black astronauts, artist Micah Johnson created the revolutionary digital avatar Aku to empower young Black individuals. PHNTM was challenged to bring this iconic NFT character from the digital realm into the physical world, enabling Aku to inspire and interact with people on the streets, transforming a digital symbol into a tangible movement of hope and empowerment.

New York, NY - Philadelphia, PA
  • 0Statue
  • 0Cities
  • 0.0KDreams
  • 0.0MImpressions
Approach
Impact
Approach

We collaborated with FKB to create a life-sized replica, designing an internal steel structure and dividing the sculpture into logical sizes for maximum precision. Using 3D printing and CNC milling for intricate parts like hands, rocket, and backpack, we meticulously assembled Aku's physical form with foam components and shell coating. Archetype Painting Studio completed the finishing process with refined details.

Impact

Aku came to life on NYC and Philadelphia streets, inspiring a movement empowering young Black individuals to chase their dreams. The sculpture featured an interactive AR app where viewers could write dreams on paper planes and interact with others' aspirations, fostering community and empowerment. Aku's transformation from digital to physical symbolized hope, determination, and the boundless potential of human dreams.

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