In an extraordinary display of talent and dedication, Nigerian doctor and hyper-realism artist Fola David has achieved a new Guinness World Record (GWR) for the largest drawing by an individual. This monumental artwork, spanning 1000 square meters, highlights Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and was completed over six intense days at Onikan Stadium in Lagos.
Dr. Fola David, known for his exceptional skill in hyper-realistic art, embarked on this ambitious project on July 16. He aimed to create a piece that would not only break records but also celebrate the diverse cultures of Nigeria. By the fourth day of his endeavor, David had already surpassed the previous record of 629.98 square meters set by Ravi Soni from India.
Read: Burna Boy Hits 2 Billion Streams in the UK
He shared his progress on Instagram, writing, “Congratulations to us all. On Day 4 at 9 pm, we broke the current record of 629.98 square meters, but we are not done! The goal is to cover over 1000 square meters of canvas in drawings; we are currently at 689 square meters. Let’s Go!”
The record-breaking artwork, “Unity in Diversity,” vividly portrays Nigeria’s various ethnic groups through their unique attire, languages, cultures, and artistic expressions. David’s achievement has garnered widespread attention and praise, including notable personalities such as Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former GWR record holder Hilda Baci, and entrepreneur Farooq Oreagba, who attended the 2024 Ojude Oba Festival.
Governor Sanwo-Olu Congratulates Fola David
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also celebrated David’s accomplishment. In a heartfelt post on X, he wrote, “From the challenging days of the pandemic where he was a #COVID19Hero at our Onikan Isolation Centre to breaking world records at our Onikan Stadium (Mobolaji Johnson Arena), Dr. Fola David has been a beacon of excellence and service. Congratulations on creating the world’s largest hand drawing by an individual, ‘Unity in Diversity.’ Lagos is proud! We are happy to have supported this record-breaking feat to showcase the extraordinary talents within our state. Your dedication and creativity inspire us all. Continue to dream big and do audacious things, Dr. @foladavidart.”
The College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL), where David is an alumnus, also supported him by visiting him during the project. His multifaceted career as a medical doctor and artist, combined with his unique style of speed painting, has made him a distinguished figure in both the medical and art communities.
Read: Things You Never Knew About Nigerian Football – Brothers in Arms
Dr. Fola David, born Adefemi Gbadamosi in Nigeria on September 5, 1993, has made significant contributions to both fields. He holds a degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Lagos. He has been recognized for his work in hyper-realistic art, including his speed painting performances, where he paints on stage with the canvas upside down or spinning. His notable works include portraits of the Ooni of Ife, Patoranking, Trey Songz, Wale, Keri Hilson, R. Kelly, Jidenna, 2face, Iyanya, DJ Jimmy Jatt, and Alibaba.
Beyond his artistic achievements, David is committed to social causes. Through the Fola David Foundation, he uses his art to raise awareness about medical issues. His works often address social stereotypes and skin disorders, depicting conditions like wrinkles, vitiligo, freckles, stretch marks, ichthyosis, and other skin imperfections.
Dr. Fola David’s latest accomplishment not only sets a new global benchmark but also brings international recognition to Nigeria’s vibrant artistic heritage. As he continues to inspire with his dedication and creativity, the world eagerly anticipates his future endeavors.