Bronze Master Nnamdi Okonkwo Takes His Figures to Loveland

By Chioma Orji

Nigerian-born sculptor Nnamdi Okonkwo with one of his signature bronze sculptures ahead of the 42nd Sculpture in the Park in Loveland, Colorado. (Photo courtesy of the artist.)

The 42nd edition of Sculpture in the Park, one of the United States' longest-running outdoor sculpture exhibitions and sales, returns to Loveland, Colorado, from August 7 to 9, 2026.

Organized by the Loveland High Plains Arts Council, the annual event brings together hundreds of sculptors and thousands of collectors and art enthusiasts for a weekend celebrating contemporary sculpture. Over the decades, it has built an international reputation for showcasing works in bronze, stone, wood, steel, glass, ceramics and mixed media.

Among this year's featured artists is Nnamdi Okonkwo, the Nigerian-born, U.S.-based sculptor renowned for his elegant bronze figures exploring themes of family, unity, love and human connection. His stylized, emotionally resonant works have earned international recognition, making his participation one of the highlights of this year's exhibition.

The weekend opens with a Patron Party on Friday, August 7, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by public exhibition hours on Saturday, August 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, August 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Held at Benson Sculpture Garden, Sculpture in the Park remains a major gathering for artists, collectors and sculpture enthusiasts, offering visitors the opportunity to view and acquire works from some of today's leading sculptors. Okonkwo's participation further reflects the growing global recognition of African artists and their contributions to contemporary sculpture.

Nnamdi Okonkwo is a Nigerian-born, U.S.-based sculptor internationally acclaimed for his distinctive bronze sculptures that celebrate family, love, unity, faith, and the human spirit. A graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he has developed a signature style characterized by smooth, rounded forms and expressive, faceless figures that convey universal emotions and relationships. His monumental public commissions and gallery works are held in private and public collections across the United States and internationally. Through his sculptures, Okonkwo continues to explore themes of hope, community, and shared humanity.