Meet the Judges of the Chinwe Russell Art Prize – Introducing Kelly Omodamwen
We are excited to introduce Kelly Omodamwen, an exceptional sculptor and one of the esteemed judges for the Chinwe Russell Art Prize 2025. Kelly’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Benin City, Edo State, where he was born in 1993. Growing up in his grandfather’s renowned traditional Benin bronze casting studio, Kelly developed a profound connection to sculpture from an early age, laying the foundation for his distinctive artistic voice.
Kelly pursued formal education at Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, earning a National Diploma in General Art and Industrial Design in 2015, followed by a Higher National Diploma in Sculpture with Distinction in 2018, along with the prestigious Rector’s Award for Best Graduating Student.
In 2017, Kelly’s artistic exploration led him to discover the use of spark plugs as a medium in sculpture, gaining widespread attention following a documentary feature by BBC Pidgin in 2020. His work has since evolved from traditional Benin art forms to contemporary sculptural expressions, specializing in welded sculptures that upcycle waste materials into functional and aesthetic masterpieces.
His career boasts numerous accolades, including participation in exhibitions such as:
“Life in My City” (2018)
“A Room Full of Stories” at Kokopelli Gallery, Lagos (2021)
Triple A “Sculptured Nature” (2021)
Miniature Art Fair, Lagos (2022)
Kelly’s work has also been featured in prestigious auctions, including:
Chalkwell Auction "Artists on the Rise," UK (2021)
Sogal Auction, Lagos (2021, 2022)
His artistic philosophy is summed up in his statement:
"Art is a reflection of its environment and time. The voice of an artist depends largely on technique and choice of medium. The proper use of both enables the audience to connect with the unspoken words of an artist."
Kelly's works have been featured in notable publications such as BBC Pidgin, BBC Igbo, The Nation Newspaper, and National Geographic Magazine, further solidifying his place in the art world.
We are honored to have Kelly as part of the judging panel, bringing his wealth of experience, cultural insight, and innovative approach to selecting and celebrating the finest talents in this year's prize.
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