Kenyan digital artist Collins Omondi Okello, the creative mind behind the viral orange-hued Raila Odinga portrait, has voiced frustration over the rampant, uncredited commercial use of his artwork. The celebrated sketch artist says his work has been exploited by businesses and individuals who continue to crop out his watermark and profit without acknowledgment.
Highlights
- Artist Collins Omondi Okello created the viral orange-hued Raila Odinga artwork.
- He says his piece is being used commercially without credit or consent.
- Collins expressed disappointment that many businesses removed his watermark.
- The artist previously went viral nearly a decade ago for another Raila sketch.
- He’s calling for recognition and fair appreciation for creative work.
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The Viral Artwork
The image of Raila Odinga, painted in bold orange hues, has become one of the most recognizable artistic tributes to the late former Prime Minister widely shared across social media, merchandise, and memorial platforms. But behind the viral image stands its original creator, Collins Omondi Okello, who says his work is being misused without credit.
On Saturday, October 18, Collins took to Facebook to express his frustration over what he described as a common struggle for Kenyan creatives loss of ownership and recognition.
“I have received so many concerns about the widespread use of my artwork for commercial purposes by so many businesses,” he wrote. “It is disheartening, but it is the reality of creatives, especially for art like this where someone can easily crop out watermarks or not acknowledge.”
The artist noted that many entities had used his illustration on banners, posters, and branded merchandise tied to Raila Odinga’s memorial events all without seeking his consent or offering compensation.
A Legacy of Art and Activism
Collins first gained attention nearly ten years ago after another striking portrait of Raila Odinga went viral online. His unique artistic style blending realism with emotional expression has since made him one of Kenya’s most respected digital artists.
However, his recent experience has reignited conversations about art ownership, digital rights, and the need for fair compensation in Kenya’s creative industry.
“All I ask is to be recognized and appreciated for the effort and passion behind my work,” Collins added.
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In a world where art spreads faster than its artist’s name, Collins’s plea is a reminder credit is the least form of payment every creative deserves.
