Nigeria’s Kanye targets world record with 12,303 square metre-size canvas

For about a month running, JC Best International School, Life Camp, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has become a destination of a sort as visual art enthusiasts converge daily to watch Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke engage in a creative endeavour of the moment.

A 15-year-old Nigerian artist, popularly known as Kanye and a student of JC Best School, who could not be deterred by autism spectrum has embarked on a journey towards a Guinness World Record through a 12,303 square metre-size canvas, not only for self-expression but also to create heightened awareness for people living with special needs.

Since the painting opened on December 9, 2024, the teenage artist has excitedly attempted to fill each corner of the canvas with his expression, beauty, and creative ingenuity.

Although it is not certain when he will conclude his painting, it was disclosed at a media forum that the entire process would be captured live on cameras to ensure the world does not miss out on any part of the project.

A board member, Zeebah Foundation, Matlou Tsotetsi, described Kanye’s quest to paint the largest art canvas in world history as a groundbreaking initiative designed to create heightened awareness about people living with special needs.

“Through his bold and inspirational pursuit, Kanye demonstrates that individuals with special needs have the potential to excel and redefine societal perceptions of ability,” she said.

Tsotetsi further described the official launching of the project, which was held on November 21, 2024, as a groundbreaking moment in the world of art for people on the autism spectrum and those in need of special care all over the world.

She added that through the project, the artist intended to give back to the autism community in Nigeria by raising funds to build The Zeebah Foundation’s state-of-the-art Autism Resource center in Abuja.

The Zeebah Foundation, of which Kanye was a pioneer student, is a non-profit organisation (NGO) that has been at the forefront of providing specialised care, education, and therapy for children living with autism in Abuja.

“To amplify its impact, Zeebah Autism Centre is now poised to scale its operations, accommodating more children and offering advanced facilities tailored to diverse needs. With expanded infrastructure and programmes, the centre aims to reach a larger community, providing comprehensive support that includes science development, creative expression and vocational training.”

“Kanye’s journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities that emerge when individuals living with autism are empowered. His art not only reflects his remarkable creativity but also serves as a powerful statement that every individual, regardless of their challenges, has something valuable to contribute.

“This record-breaking attempt will shine a global spotlight on the need to create opportunities for individuals with special needs to thrive, reminding society of the importance of support, encouragement and acceptance.”

Also speaking, Kanye’s mentor and art teacher, Kokab Farrukh, urged parents of children with autism to take them to experts for talent discovery and mentorship. She emphasised that every autistic child has a special talent,”and Kanye has that ability in he arts. If you have an autistic child, bring the child to an expert to help discover and mentor the talent.”

For the representative of the Kanyeyachukwu Foundation, Mrs. Chinelu Iwenofu, “Kanye’s work will greatly impact persons living with autism and give them better opportunities in life.”

It was disclosed that Kanye, as he is popularly called, has spent the last several months preparing to create what will be the largest canvas painting ever produced by an artist, especially considering his age and the fact that he is living with autism.

The current record held by Emad Salehi stands at 9652 square meters. Kanye’s canvas, measuring an impressive over 12,000 Square meters will reflect his unique perspective, artistic talent, and unwavering passion for self-expression.

The young artist was diagnosed with autism at an early age and has grown to use art as a means of communication and exploration. His work explores themes of colours, emotion and connections between one’s inner feelings and the environment.

“This record attempt is more than just breaking a world record. In addition to raising awareness for autism, he is also giving back to society by using this record attempt titled,

“Impossibility is a myth,” to raise funds for the building of The Zeebah Foundation’s Autism Resource Centre in Abuja,” said Kanye’s parent, Mr. Tagbo Okeke.