Soludo’s wife hails 15-year-old’s Guinness World record painting

The Anambra State governor’s wife, Dr Nonye Soludo, has congratulated a 15-year-old painting talent, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, who just set a Guinness World Record with the painting of the world’s largest canvas.

Tagbo-Okeke, who is living with autism, made history when his work was unveiled at the Eagle’s Square, Abuja, on April 2, as the largest handmade canvas by an individual in the globe.

This historical feat has earned the Amichi, Nnewi South Local Government Area-born painting talent recognition in the world’s records book, placing him side-by-side with other elites whose daringness and courage have seen them set landmark feats.

Kanyeyachukwu, fondly called “Kanye,” who recently turned 15, is a creative artist whose works over the years have been showcased in galleries and museums across Nigeria, America, Asia, Europe, and other parts of Africa, gaining wide acceptance in the art world with collectors and enthusiasts showing interest in his craft.

The painting was aimed at drawing attention to the plight of children and adults living with Autism and special needs all over the world and to challenge children towards excellence.

The project measuring 12,303 sq meters is aptly titled, “Impossibility is a Myth” and an attempt to create the largest painting in the world, a record which previously stood at 9,652 sq meters.

In her congratulatory letter, which was released in Awka on Friday, Soludo described Kanyeyachukwu as a “definition of tenacity and resilience” and praised him for not allowing his condition to deter his talent.

She described the JSS3 students’ courage as a “huge point of reference and massive inspiration for children all over the world who may be facing challenging choices as a result of life’s uncertainties”.

The governor’s wife also commended the latest champion for once again “putting Anambra State on a global map and for representing excellence, industry, and ingenuity for which the state is known for”.

She said, “We urge other kids in the state to emulate Master Kanyeyachukwu’s strength and also be inspired by his determination to beat the obstacles ahead of him.”

Tagbo-Okeke is expected to be hosted by the governor’s wife, where his future and ambitions would be discussed.