Guinness World Record has a new entry as another Nigerian has taken the centre-stage. Find out what and how he did it!
Dr. Fola David-Tolaram, a Nigerian doctor, has made history by setting a Guinness World Record for the largest drawing ever created by an individual. His masterpiece spans an enormous 1,004.7 m² (10,814.5 ft²) and was completed on the pitch at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Nigeria.
David-Tolaram, 31, has always had a passion for art. He created this stunning work to celebrate Nigeria’s diverse cultures. The doctor-cum-artist described his drawing as “a map of Nigeria showing the various cultures.” He explained, “The Nigerian country is a multi-cultural nation. I wanted to create something that speaks to that and give people an avenue to celebrate their cultures.”
Guinness World Record says artwork is monumental
The piece, titled The Unity of Diversity, represents David-Tolaram’s experience of traveling across Nigeria. His journey helped him immerse himself in the different cultural elements that inspired the artwork. To bring his vision to life, he used a 1,360 m² canvas and waterproof markers.
For two days, David-Tolaram focused on assembling the giant canvas. He then spent six days completing the drawing. His original plan was to work in a circular motion from the center of the canvas, but he adjusted his approach as he went along, adapting to the scale of the project.
The challenge of creating the work
The drawing took place in front of a live audience at the 5,000-seat stadium. Spectators cheered him on, creating an “electrifying” atmosphere. David-Tolaram recalled the pressure he felt before starting the drawing: “I remember standing right in the center of this canvas, about to start this drawing, and feeling a lot of apprehension and fear… But once I got going, I knew I could do it.”
David-Tolaram’s achievement has brought him international recognition and much celebration. He is now a Guinness World Records titleholder, a distinction he once dreamed about. Tolaram is now in the league of Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tems, Davido, Hilda Basi, who have won international laurels for the nation. He said, “I grew up reading about world records and I never thought that I would be a record title holder. I feel very honored, I feel distinguished, and I feel Officially Amazing.”
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