Creativity Rolls In: Art Bus and Ofrenda Workshop at the West Orange Arts Center
West Orange, NJ — The West Orange Arts Council (WOAC) invites families and community members to celebrate culture, creativity, and tradition with two unique events taking place on Saturday, October 11, at the West Orange Arts Center, 551 Valley Road.
At 1:00 PM, the Art Bus rolls into West Orange for the very first time. Created in 2023 by Crudo (Domingo Cruz), a Washington Heights-raised, South Bronx-based artist, the Art Bus was born from a mission to bring creativity directly to children who may otherwise lose access to the arts. More than just a mobile studio, the Art Bus delivers hands-on art workshops, literacy support, and cultural storytelling to communities across New York City. Its purpose is simple but profound: to ensure that kids, especially those without after-school programs, still have access to imagination, creativity, and self-expression.
This stop in West Orange is co-sponsored by the Read Up! Book Club, offering families an unforgettable experience that blends art, education, and community.
At 2:00 PM, the celebration continues with a Día de Muertos – Day of the Dead Ofrenda Workshop, presented by WOAC artist Judyann Affronti and her husband Mac McParland, in collaboration with the West Orange Hispanic Foundation.
Popular films like Coco and The Book of Life have raised awareness of Día de Muertos, but the holiday’s roots run deep. With origins in Aztec culture, Día de Muertos is a joyful tradition honoring deceased loved ones through vigils, parades, flowers, festive foods, and colorful ofrendas (altars). Participants will learn about the essential elements of an ofrenda, their symbolism, and the rich cultural history behind this vibrant Mexican tradition.
Affronti and McParland, frequent travelers to Oaxaca de Juárez—the “capital city” of Día de Muertos—have learned from local indigenous residents and will share their knowledge with the community. Together, they will build an ofrenda at the Arts Center. Attendees are invited to bring a 3x5 unframed photo of a deceased friend or relative to be included on the altar.
All of this will take place against the vibrant backdrop of WOAC's current Colores y Cultura Hispanic Heritage Art Exhibit, a vivid celebration of color, tradition, and identity.
These family-friendly events will also feature craft activities for children, making it a meaningful and creative afternoon for all ages.
Event Details
Saturday, October 11
West Orange Arts Center, 551 Valley Road
1:00 PM – Art Bus Experience (co-sponsored by Read Up! Book Club)
2:00 PM – Día de Muertos Ofrenda Workshop (with West Orange Hispanic Foundation)
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