Kelvin Okafor

Born 1st November 1985.

I am a very passionate penciled artist who is highly interested in detail and precision.

The subjects I use in my drawings are mainly people and they are drawn in the style of Photo-realism. I create like this mainly because of the deep emotional sense of connection I feel when drawing a subject intricately and capturing expressions in a lifelike manner.

I became interested in the genre of Photo-realism from a very young age. I was 15 during my studies at St Ignatius College when I discovered I could draw to a noticeably skilful degree. I would reference and draw inspiration from realism and photo-realism greats such as Chuck Close, Ralph Goings, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. They have heavily inspired, influenced and motivated me, not only by their works, but their ability to use their minds in such a way it prompts emotion and innovation.
Photo- realism to me was another word for mastery. Personally, I don't think I have or ever will live to see my craft mastered. But it's like the term "Perfection". Perfection is an illusion, but one still strives towards it. So that is what got me interested in photo-realism. It's also what helped develop the compelling mindset to master my craft and d...

I studied a year course in Foundation Art & Design at City & Guilds - London Art School in the year 2005 to 2006. I then went on to graduate at Middlesex University with B.A. Honours in Fine Art in the year 2006 to 2009.

List of exhibitions:

National Open Art Competition - 11th October 2012 - 3rd February 2013
- Watercolour + Works on Paper selected works at The Science Museum in London Jan 31st - Feb 3rd 2013.
- Chichester at Pallant House (Winners only) Nov 8th - Nov 18th 2012
- The Prince's Foundation Gallery in Hoxton, London Oct 24th - Nov 1st 2012
- Chichester at The Minerva Theatre Oct 11th - 21st 2012


Vibe Gallery - 18th- 31st October 2012
- “Drawings” Exhibition at 100 Clements Road, SE16 4DG


The Threadneedle Prize - 26th September -13th October 2012
- Mall Galleries, The Mall, SW1


E17 Art Trail - 1st - 16th September 2012
- Pictorem Gallery, 383 Hoe Street


Middlesex University Fine Art Degree Show - 2009 -
- Exhibition of final year student art:
Cat Hill Campus - May 22-24th 2009
Old Truman Brewery - June 5-8 2009