AT the prestigious ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ group exhibition, held at Teddington, London, visual artist Hillary Emetuche emerged as the winner of the Best Drawing Award, earning recognition for his remarkable charcoal portrait titled “Drawing of Ezinne.”
The ‘Touchlines of Fortitude’ series — now in its second edition — is a celebrated open-call exhibition platform that showcases exceptional artistic talent across diverse media, including painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and yarn art. The 2025 edition was curated and judged by a distinguished panel comprising leading art critic Tabish Khan, award-winning figurative artist Karen Turner, curator Agnieszka Lokaj, and The Beach Gallery owner Mark Vellacott. Written works were additionally reviewed by renowned sports journalist Alison Kervin OBE, Dr Anna Johnson, and Millie Walton.
Emetuche’s winning piece, ‘Drawing of Ezinne,’ captivated the judges and audience alike with its expressive depth and technical mastery.
Executed in charcoal, the work was praised for its emotive realism, nuanced tonal balance, and the artist’s ability to “capture both physical and psychological presence with quiet intensity.”
Speaking after the announcement, Emetuche said:
“Drawing of Ezinne was inspired by my sister, Ezinne, who has a kind heart and reflects the gracious feminine heart. Her name, meaning good mother or virtuous mother, solidifies my quest to express her in work.”
The ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ exhibition, organised by Fortitude Touchlines in partnership with The Beach Gallery, brought together some of the UK’s most promising and established creatives for an evening of art, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
The private preview held on 24 September 2025 drew art professionals, critics, collectors, and enthusiasts from across London’s creative community.
For Emetuche, this accolade adds to a growing record of artistic distinction.
The London-based Nigerian artist held his debut solo exhibition at the Dugdale Arts Centre, Enfield Art Circle, and other showcases, where his portraits have been celebrated for their storytelling power and technical precision.
His win at ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ underscores his rising influence within the UK’s visual arts scene.