A Guide to Doodle For Google: A Valuable Scholarship for the Artsy Student

If you have a passion for doodling, Doodle for Google is an exciting opportunity for students in grades K3 through 12 to showcase their artistic skills on a national stage. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of participating in this fantastic competition and share some cool tips to give you a competitive edge.

Artwork: Joshua Tree

“I was grateful when I went to the Joshua tree with my family. I loved seeing the stars and making smores. It made me realize how small we are compared to the universe. I was thankful that I was brought into this world from the best family in the whole wide world. My mom and I talked about the stars all night long. It was a memorable night.” – California, K-3 Group. Link here.

What is Doodle for Google?

Doodle for Google is an annual art competition hosted by Google, where students across the United States get the chance to design the Google logo. The theme changes each year, providing a unique canvas for students to express their imagination and creativity. The winning doodle gets featured on the Google homepage, and the talented artist receives scholarships and prizes.

Embrace the Theme

The first step to creating an award-winning doodle is to understand and embrace the theme. Google sets a new theme each year, and your doodle should reflect your interpretation of that theme. Whether it's exploring outer space, celebrating diversity, or envisioning the future, let your creativity run wild within the boundaries of the theme.

“I am grateful for imagination and books. Every time I open a fantasy book, the pictures and every word become real and dance. This amazing piece of artwork shows magic coming out of the book and forming the letters "G-o-o-g-l-e". Magic swirls around the book at all times. It is a wonderful paradise.” – Michigan, K-3 Group. Link here.

Doodle for Google has featured a variety of creative and thought-provoking themes over the years. While themes can vary, here are some examples from past competitions:

• “I am grateful for…” (2023)

• “I care for myself by…” (2022)

• "I am strong because..." (2021)

• "I show kindness by..." (2020)

• "When I grow up I hope..." (2019)

• "What inspires me..." (2018)

These themes showcase the diversity and depth of ideas that students can explore through their doodles. Each theme encourages young artists to reflect on their experiences, dreams, and the world around them.

Research and Brainstorm

Before putting pen to paper, take some time to research the theme and gather inspiration. Look up related images, read articles, and jot down key ideas that resonate with you. Brainstorming allows you to explore various concepts and ensures that your doodle is both original and meaningful.

Focus on Storytelling

Doodle: Thankful for my Teachers, Classmates and Community. Link here. 

A great doodle tells a story. Consider incorporating a narrative or a sequence of events within your artwork. Think about how your doodle can convey a message or evoke emotions. Judges love to see entries that not only look visually appealing but also have a deeper meaning.

Play with Colors and Styles

Your doodle should stand out, so play around with different palettes and artistic techniques. Consider how the colors you choose complement each other and how they contribute to the overall impact of your artwork.

Attention to Detail

Pay attention to the details. Judges often appreciate intricate designs and careful craftsmanship. Whether it's tiny hidden elements or elaborate patterns, adding details can make your doodle more engaging and memorable.

While details are crucial, avoid cluttering your doodle. A clean and clear design will make a more significant impact. Focus on the main elements that convey your message and avoid unnecessary distractions.

Submitting Your Doodle

Once your masterpiece is complete, follow the submission guidelines provided by Doodle for Google. Ensure that your entry meets all the requirements and deadlines. Take pride in your creation and submit it with confidence! Remember, your doodle will become the Google logo for a day if you win. Think about how well your artwork aligns with the iconic Google logo. Incorporate the letters or create a design that seamlessly integrates with the Google brand, making it instantly recognizable.

How are the doodles judged?

Doodles are grouped and judged by grade levels. These grades are judged together:

• Grades K-3

• Grades 4-5

• Grades 6-7

• Grades 8-9

• Grades 10-12. 
  

Then, a panel of judges will determine three levels of winners:

• 54 State and Territory Winners

• 5 National Finalists

• 1 National Winner

Finally, a panel of Google Employees will choose 1 National Winner out of the 5 National Finalists. 

Disqualifications: Important Things to Remember

Please remember to follow the rules listed. Some of these are: 

• Doodles that are not original works, contain logos, or copyrighted imagery will be disqualified. 

• Only one application per student. 

• Only the first Doodle entered for each student will be considered, and any additional Doodles will be disqualified. 

Please read through contest rules for more information.

Prizes

Doodle for Google offers exciting prizes for participants. The National Winner gets a $30,000 college scholarship, a $50,000 tech package for their school/non-profit, and their doodle displayed on Google.com for 24 hours. 

National Finalists receive a $5,000 scholarship, Google hardware, and fun swag. State and Territory Winners have their doodles featured on the gallery, along with Google hardware, a congratulatory message, and fun swag.

 Check out the history and gallery on the official website for more details.

Final Thoughts

Doodle for Google is an incredible platform for young artists to shine. Let your imagination run wild, embrace the theme, and pour your heart into your doodle. Remember, it's not just about winning; it's about expressing yourself and sharing your unique perspective with the world. Good luck, and may your doodle light up the Google homepage!

More Opportunities With Polygence

If you are looking to develop your artistic skills, Polygence can help provide new research ideas for future art projects. On everything from passion project ideas to matching you with a mentor, Polygence can help grow your artistic skills. Learn more about our mentor programs and see what other students have done with the help of Polygence.

Helpful References

• Doodle for Google Official Website

• Contest Rules