A Nigerian teenager with autism Set to Enter Guinness World Record with Largest Art Canvas

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke of JC-Best international schools, Abuja who has autism will on Monday begin his quest to enter the Guinness World Record with the largest Canvas (art painting)

This was disclosed at a press conference in Abuja on Friday by a board member of Zeebah Foundation, Matlou Tsotetsi.

He announced that Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke’s quest to paint the largest art Canvas in world history will begin from Monday 9th December 2024.

“Young Kanyeyachukwu is set to embark on a historic Guinness World Record attempt camting on this canvas. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to create heightened awareness for people living with special needs, emphasising their extraordinary talents and contributions to society. Through his bold and inspirational pursuit,

“Kanyeyachukwu demonstrates that individuals with special needs have the potential to excel and redefine societal perceptions of ability,” he said.

Speaking further, she said, ” On the 21st of November 2024, Kanyeyachukwu launched the world’s Largest Art Canvass measuring 12,303 sq. This was 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 also noted that Kanye and his team has been preparing for this great feat.

“The last ten days Kanye, his team and support base, have been painstakingly preparing and socking the canvas to his school JC Best school international, where in batches measuring 5 by 20 meters, Kanye will fill each corner of the canvass with his own expression, with his own beauty and his own creativity. The entire process of painting this canvas will be recorded live on cameras that will be installed in this building ensuring that the world would not miss out on any bit of this entire project,” she informed.

In addition, she said, ” Through this project, Kanyeyachukwu intends to give back to the autism community in Nigeria by raising funds, for the building of The Zeebah Foundation’s state-of-the-art Autism Resource center in Abuja, Nigeria.”

The Zeebah foundation of which Kanye is a pioneer student is a Non Profit Organization (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 center aims to reach a larger community, providing comprehensive support that includes science development, creative expression, and vocational training,” the Foundation noted.

In her words: “Kanyeyachukwu’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.”

She appreciated all their partners, “We are especially and extremely grateful to the Nigerian Armed forces, and all our other partners.”

Kanye’s mentor, Kokab Farrukh, of the house of Arts, advised those with children that have autism, to take them to experts for talent discovery and mentorship, ” Every autism child has a special talent and Kanye is having that ability in arts. If you have an autism child; bring the child to an expert to help discover and mentor the talent.”

The General Secretary of the Nigerian Society of Arts (NSA), Prince Prosper, said, “professionalism is simply being yourself for others to enjoy and Kanye has displayed this in the art society.

According to him, ” Kanye has been awarded fellow of the society at age 14, making him the youngest fellow of the society.”

The representative of Kanyeyachukwu Foundation, Chinelu Iwenofu, said Kanye’s work will greatly impact people person’s living with autism and give them better opportunities in life.