Curated by Trenton artist Jonathan “Lank” Conner and Final Boss Comics & Games, Sequential/Variants is a two-part show. The exhibition will be displayed for the first time at Artworks Trenton through Saturday, November 23. An opening reception takes place Thursday, November 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. and features artist vendors, a pop-up comic book shop provided by Final Boss Comics in Lawrenceville, and a comic-themed DJ set by DJ ItsJustAhmad.
Part 1 is Sequential: An Art Show Celebrating Visual Storytelling presented in the main gallery and will consist of artists selected from an open call for comic book-themed and narrative-based artwork.
Part 2 is Variants, a collection of invitation-based original artwork on blank variant comic book covers displayed in the community gallery. Attendees are invited to explore the dynamic storytelling and diverse artistic interpretations on display, connecting with the timeless tradition of visual narratives.
Pictorial Storytelling is one of humanity’s oldest artforms, and sequential art in the 21st century has reached a visual and linguistic high point in the quality of the art and narratives. Sequential is an art exhibition that celebrates the artistry and narrative power of comics and graphic novels, spotlighting original works inspired by heroes, villains, and everyday characters whose stories have leaped off the page and into our imaginations. Comics have always drawn readers with their striking covers, each designed to captivate and invite exploration. Variants takes this concept to the next level, inviting a diverse group of artists to reinterpret their favorite characters and scenes, creating unique cover art that leaps off the page. From bold reimaginings to intricate homages, these works promise to inspire and entice new readers and longtime fans alike.
Alongside the exhibition, there will be various programming throughout November including a Princeton Comic Makers Meet-Up on Wednesday, November 6, from 7 to 9 p.m., a Final Boss Comics & Games Book Club on Tuesday, November 12, at 5:20 p.m., and the show ends with a Panel Discussion on Saturday, November 23, from noon to 4 p.m. Celebrate the final day with an academic look at the history and current state of comics and their impact on popular culture. Panel will include faculty from Trenton High School, Monmouth University, comic creators, and Final Boss Comics, moderated by Jonathan “Lank” Conner.
Sequential/Variants, Artworks Trenton, 19 Everett Alley, Trenton. On view through November 23. artworkstrenton.org.
