Nigerian art student Chancellor Ahaghotu has made history by breaking a decade-old record for the longest painting marathon. Chancellor, a sophomore at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, far surpassed the previous record of 60 hours set by Roland Palmaerts in 2013.
“I came to the United States to pursue my dreams and build up my career as a recognized artist. Breaking the record will boost my recognition as an artist both in my school and the world at large.” Chancellor said before beginning his record attempt.
During the four-day challenge, Chancellor Ahaghotu tirelessly produced 106 pieces depicting various subjects, including celebrities, food items, plants, animals, and more. At the 60th hour, he painted a broken record player to symbolize surpassing the previous record. Read Also: Kisumu, Kenya to host Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) 2024
As with all “longest marathon” records, Chancellor was allowed a five-minute rest break for every continuous hour of activity, which he used for bathroom breaks, eating, and sleeping.
A Triumph of Endurance and Artistic Talent
Chancellor battled fatigue around the 88-hour mark but remained committed to reaching his target of 100 hours. Initially planning to complete one painting per hour, he prepared 100 canvases with sketches before starting the record attempt. However, he finished them all ahead of schedule and proceeded to create impromptu still lifes and a final painting of an exhausted person.
Upon completing the 100 hours, Chancellor expressed joy and a sense of personal achievement. He believes that this record will contribute to his career as a reputable artist while also serving his school and country.
Africans Who Recently Made a Mark
Chancellor joins a long list of Africans who have recently broken world records, testifying to the continent’s diverse talent and relentless determination.
- Wayde van Niekerk’s 400 Meter Record: Wayde van Niekerk from South Africa holds the world record for the fastest 400 meters run by a male athlete, setting an incredible standard in athletics.
- Chinonso Eche’s Football Balancing Feat: In the world of football, Chinonso Eche from Nigeria achieved the most consecutive football touches in one minute while balancing a football on his head, exemplifying a perfect blend of agility and balance.
- Hilda Baci’s Cooking Marathon: Culinary arts have also seen record-breaking performances. Nigerian chef Hilda Baci once held the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual before Alan Fisher took over the title from Ireland.
- Ahmed Hafnaoui’s Swimming Triumph: Swimming has not been left behind either. Ahmed Hafnaoui from Tunisia, at the 2023 World Championships, set an African record in the 400-meter freestyle, showcasing the continent’s strength in water sports.