The Chinwe Russell Art Prize 2025 has officially announced its winners, celebrating the remarkable talent and innovation of Nigerian artists.
After an intense judging process, three outstanding artists have emerged as the top winners, with several others receiving commendations and public recognition.
The competition, which attracted an impressive range of submissions, showcased the depth of artistic creativity across the country.
From mixed media and sculpture to found objects and oil painting, the winning artworks highlight themes of resilience, fragility, and identity.
Meet the Judges
A distinguished panel of experts lent their artistic insight to the selection process:
- Saratu Ishaya Audu – A multidisciplinary artist with expertise in painting, textile design, and sculpture, whose work is internationally collected.
- Uchenna Ibe – Founder of Ivy League Collections Limited, a leader in sustainable interior design and a champion of women’s empowerment.
- Kelly Omodamwen – A bronze sculptor renowned for pioneering spark plug sculptures, blending traditional Benin casting with contemporary materials.
- Obinna Adiele – A contemporary Nigerian sculptor specializing in intricate steel wire sculptures that engage and inspire viewers.
Top Winners of the Chinwe Russell Art Prize 2025
First Prize – 300,000 Naira
Caroline Useh (Lagos, Nigeria), Title: The Fragility of the Child
Medium: Found objects on canvas/board Dimensions: 92cm x 76cm
Description: A powerful commentary on childhood vulnerability, emphasizing the need for nurturing and protection.
Second Prize – 200,000 Naira
Osehimoirah Richard (Benin City, Nigeria), Title: Broken
Medium: Nails fused with fiberglass Dimensions: 2.5 feet (height) x 1.5 feet (width)
Description: An abstract sculptural mask symbolizing the fragility of human emotions, exploring the tension between strength and vulnerability.
Third Prize – 100,000 Naira
Michael Anyadike (Gbagada, Lagos, Nigeria), Title: Echoes of Verdant Souls
Medium: Mixed media (waste drink cans, wood, waste aluminium sheets, nails) Dimensions: 61cm x 42cm
Description: A reflection on resilience and hope, inviting viewers to see themselves in the evolving textures of life.
Highly Commended Artists
In recognition of their exceptional contributions, three artists received commendation prizes of 10,000 Naira each:
Elijah Becon Waye (Lagos) – A Story from Where I Come From (Crayola and pastel, 50cm x 180cm)
Deborah Ifechukwu (Lagos) – Illuminated Gaze (Exploring light, perception, and personal growth).
Ekeoma Ahumaraeze (Enugu) – Child Abuse (An oil painting highlighting child hardship in Africa)
Public Vote Winners Selected for International Auction
Several artists were also selected by public vote to have their works presented at the prestigious Chinwe Russell Art Auction. The chosen pieces include: Mulero Abibat – Prayer Warrior, Jacobson Ejameh – Everyday People, Christopher Ebiokubo Ayaoge – Ijaw Awigiri Dancers, Negotiation, Colours of Creation, Abidoye Oladimeji – Suku Ologede, Orisabunmi 1, Ayomide Joshua – The Thirteenth Disciple, Ifpaulart – Ordained, Rebirth, Zainab Garba – Mandala Szn, Ebikabowei Bozimo– The White Horse & Its Rider, Atobatele Oluwadamilola – The Great Mason, Lekan Salam – Blossom Together 1, Asuquo Ayi Ukorebi – Sweetness and Bitterness of Life, Ajayi-Olowo Precious – Cultural Beauty, Damilola Ajegbomogun – House of Cards 1 & 2, Sadiq Abimbola Rukayat – A Commingling of Eternity with Time, Afolabi Ifeoluwa Abraham – Cultural Convergence 2, Chinagorom Chibuezem Christopher (Noblecreation) – Power and Treasure. Bali Audu – See No Evil, Raji David Adeteju – Party Preparation, Sholaja Omotolani Ismail – All Eye on You II, Blessing Ebere Onyeoziri – Deformity, Chidera Okafor – Ade, Emmanuel Eweje – New Shoot, Clara Aden – Infomania 2, Vikala Sati – Spice Fantasy, Oluwaseyi Emmanuel Adeyemo – Pentecost 2 (Without Price)
The Chinwe Russell Art Prize 2025 not only highlights the brilliance of Nigerian artists but also provides a platform for emerging and established creatives to gain international recognition.
Prize money will be disbursed at the end of April 2025 upon invoice submission.
