Indigene

This ox was purchased at The Year of the Ox gala.

Artist:   Clifford Ward

Sponsor:   Hopewell Valley Arts Council

Artist's Design Statement

Winning Gala Bid:  $2,600

Embracing the mythologies, cultures and ethos of the African Diaspora, Australian Aborigines, Native Americans and Maori People of New Zealand through dance, religion and spirituality, my work has evolved into a “potpourri” of many of these indigenous peoples’ cultures.

My work is developed from first idea/subject and then my symbols and designs are improvisationally drawn.  The color combination of black with unbleached titanium is used to give textural visual effects.  With my ox, I thought this was appropriate since it is a set/finite subject, but the design work has no limits.  Ancient, indigenous-like designs and symbols are always consistent with my work.  With gold being the principal or most valued metal in alchemy, I have used it sparingly on the elegant, spiritual ox.

I gave the name “Indigene” to my ox because it is a strong, tribal-like figure that remains consistent throughout my work and acts as my symbol for so many of these ancient cultures.  The ox, likewise, is a strong and symbolic animal.

It is important that I bring my work to ‘ordinary, everyday’ people, for it is from these people (past and present) that my work is inspired.