Artworks Trenton has announced an upcoming exhibition, “Clifford Ward: I’ll Make Me a World, prologue.” It will run February 1 through April 12, with an opening reception on February 1 from 6 to 9 p.m., offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Ward’s artwork.

The exhibition brings together selected works from multiple series of works by Ward, celebrating the intersection of his artistic journey with the imaginative and forward-looking spirit of Afrofuturism. Curated by Addison Vincent, artistic director of Artworks Trenton, this exhibition represents a unique collaboration between Artworks Trenton and Grounds For Sculpture (GFS), located in Hamilton. The Artworks Trenton exhibition is a first look at select pieces to be featured in GFS’ upcoming exhibition, “Clifford Ward: I’ll Make Me a World.” The exhibition at GFS is guest curated by Noah Smalls and will be on view in its Museum Building from May 18 to January 11, 2026. Expanding on the Artworks Trenton exhibition, GFS will display Ward’s work in a larger context, revealing the complete narrative and the interconnectedness of his greater oeuvre.

Ward, known for his innovative and thought-provoking pieces, has gained recognition for his works inspired by the mythologies, cultures, and pathos of the African Diaspora, Australian Aborigines, Native American, and Maori people. His work spans a variety of mediums and styles, consistently pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.

“We are excited to present Clifford Ward’s exhibition,” said Vincent. “His talent for engaging and inspiring audiences perfectly complements our mission to nurture creativity and artistic expression within the community. Furthermore, his work embodies the ideals of Black History Month, extending its significance beyond just February.”

“My sculptures either remain in their mixed media form (steel, newspaper, plaster bandages, cowrie shells, acrylic paint, or amber shellac with brown wax) or they are cast in bronze, iron, or aluminum,” said Ward. “I like to explore my love of geometry, cubism, mythology, anthropomorphism, textures and Egyptian/Nubian art and symbols.”

“We are delighted to collaborate with Artworks Trenton,” said Kathleen Greene, chief audience officer at Grounds For Sculpture. “It provides both of our organizations the opportunity to celebrate Ward’s extraordinary work while deepening our organizations’ connectivity and growing our mutual audiences within the local community.”

The exhibition at Artworks Trenton will include a diverse collection of Ward’s works created over the last decade, providing an immersive experience for art enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Special events, including an artist talk and community events, will be scheduled throughout the exhibition period.

Artworks Trenton is at 19 Everett Alley in Trenton. For more information, visit artworkstrenton.org. Grounds For Sculpture is at 80 Sculptors Way in Hamilton. Visit roundsforsculpture.org.