Acclaimed artist Kelvin Okafor is redefining the visual language of beauty with his latest exhibition, “Drawing Awareness,” a powerful collection of nine hyper-realistic portraits that celebrate individuals with visible skin conditions and differences. The series, which marks the culmination of a six-year artistic journey, challenges traditional narratives in portraiture while advocating for greater inclusivity in fine art.
The inspiration for this groundbreaking work struck Okafor in 2019 after completing his first drawing of model Winnie Harlow. “In all my years studying portraiture – from the Old Masters to contemporary artists – I had rarely, if ever, encountered a portrait that represented someone with a visible skin condition or difference,” Okafor reflects. “That absence resonated deeply.”
This profound realisation led the artist to question the established norms of portraiture and ultimately inspired the “Drawing Awareness” series.
Executed entirely in graphite and charcoal, Okafor’s portraits achieve nearly photographic precision, with every pore, scar, and strand of hair rendered with obsessive care. Yet what truly distinguishes these works is their emotional resonance.
The artist’s approach goes beyond technical mastery. For “Drawing Awareness,” Okafor worked from photographs but took the additional step of speaking with many of his subjects beforehand to understand their experiences and perspectives. This personal connection infuses each portrait with authenticity and depth.
“Through these portraits, I aim to challenge conditioned perceptions of beauty and normalcy, and to invite a deeper recognition of humanity in all its visible difference,” Okafor explains.
The series finds its home at Hope 93, a gallery that has quickly established itself as a progressive space for socially engaged art. Founded by Aki Abiola with a mission to amplify underrepresented voices, the venue provides an ideal platform for Okafor’s advocacy work.
“Kelvin’s advocacy for greater inclusivity and his celebration of diversity perfectly embodies the thought-provoking, conversation starting work we strive to amplify through Hope 93,” notes Abiola.
The exhibition strengthens its impact through partnerships with leading advocacy organisations including Changing Faces, Face Equality International, and The Katie Piper Foundation – groups that share Okafor’s vision for visibility, acceptance, and meaningful social change.
For Okafor, who first gained recognition over a decade ago through social media portraits of notable figures including Amy Winehouse and Mother Teresa, “Drawing Awareness” represents both an artistic milestone and personal transformation. The completion of nine drawings feels symbolically significant, marking what he describes as “the end of one cycle in my life and practice.”
“This is the close of a chapter,” Okafor reflects. “But I trust its impact will ripple forward – quietly, powerfully, and lastingly.”
Exhibition Details
At Hope 93 Gallery, 54 Eastcastle Street, London, W1W 8EF
5 June – 3 July 2025 | Tuesday–Saturday, 11am–6pm
Image Courtesy of Kelvin Okafor
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