Henry Otwoma crowned winner of 2023 Red Bull Doodle Art finals

The competition attracted campus students and art enthusiasts from all over the country who showcased their skills in doodle art.

The national finals were the culmination of a 2-month competition, where artists submitted their creative doodle designs for a chance to compete in the global competition in Amsterdam this May. The judges, including decorated illustrator and artist Edwin Wainaina, praised the high turnout of participants, with 700 entries received in total.

Out of the 700 pieces submitted, 30 pieces were selected for viewing in the gallery, as some artists had more than one item in the final round.

The judges selected the top 10 finalists, based on creativity, skill, and the fun aspect of their doodles. The top 10 included Joan Muema, Caleb Kivindu, Annette Ikok, Henry Otwoma, Marvin Kibutu, Dennis Ndegwa, Brian Mwai, Edward Kamau, and Chandni Halai.

Henry Otwoma expressed gratitude to Red Bull for providing a platform for Kenyan artists to showcase their talent and grow the doodle space in the country.

"I am grateful to Red Bull because it has opened up the doodling space in Kenya to artists like me. Such platforms are an opportunity to voice our artistic expression and make a living out of it," he said.

Joan Muema, the first runner-up, also expressed her excitement about being selected among the top three. The winners received gift hampers from Red Bull, and Henry Otwoma will represent Kenya in the global competition in Amsterdam.

Overall, the Red Bull Doodle Art competition provided an opportunity for Kenyan artists to unleash their creativity and have fun with their doodles. It also showcased the immense talent in the country and the potential for artists to make a living through their artistic expression.