Kenyan artist catches Steve Harvey's attention with beautiful artwork

A Kenyan artist is preparing to meet his idol, American author and comedian, Steve Harvey, after drawing his (Harvey's) portrait.

Collins Omondi Okello, after completion of the artwork, posted it on Twitter, hoping that Steve would see it.

"Complete pencil drawing of @IAmSteveHarvey. Will be a real boost to my hustle if you have this in your gallery. Waiting with bated breath," Okello wrote on Twitter.

Complete! Pencil drawing of @IAmSteveHarvey. Will be a real boost to my hustle if you have this in your gallery. Waiting with bated breath????????????#steveharveypencil #JaduongArtWorks pic.twitter.com/MRxql0pbKh pic.twitter.com/gk2v7ki3bL

— Collins Omondi Okello (@collimondi) March 1, 2020

After much retweets and likes, the portrait got to Steve's timeline and to Collins' greatest surprise, he loved the portrait and has agreed to meet with him.

"Now I'm looking for you it would be my honor to have this .... what size is it and I'll be in Joburg and Botswana soon let's hook up then," Harvey said in his tweet.

Now I’m looking for you it would be my honor to have this .... what size is it and I’ll be in Joburgh and Botswana soon let’s hook up then https://t.co/GXKbR1fTgM

— Steve Harvey (@IAmSteveHarvey) March 1, 2020

Okello told CNN the recognition humbled and excited him
"I never expected such a thing to happen, and so soon. I'm positively blown!"

Okello, 30, studied finance but says he taught himself how to draw and now works full time as an artist.
He says being an artist does not receive as much respect as other professions.

"Society doesn't respect art that much, especially in my country. It is my mission to change that perception with my small efforts."

Okello now wants to create a platform for more emerging artists in Kenya.

"I'm seeking to have a gallery that should build me and other budding talents within my country and possibly have exhibitions all around the world; to give the platform I have been given," he said.

Until then, his advice for growing artists on the continent: "Use social media well and believe in yourself."