Autistic Teen Sets Guinness World Record for Largest Canvas Painting

The Eagle Square in Nigeria’s capital came alive as 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, an autistic artist, made history by setting the Guinness World Record for the largest painting on a canvas.

Unveiled on World Autism Awareness Day, his painting spans an extraordinary 12,303 square metres, surpassing previous records and earning recognition from the Guinness World Records as the largest canvas painting ever created.

The milestone drew dignitaries, art enthusiasts, and autism inclusion advocates to celebrate the young prodigy’s achievement. Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, praised Tagbo-Okeke’s perseverance and talent.

“Kanyeyachukwu’s success speaks to the resilience of individuals with special needs. He has demonstrated that creative expression knows no barriers,” Musawa said.

The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2025, Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, underscored the importance of inclusion and support for individuals with autism. In a statement, the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, urged the nation to foster an environment where neurodiverse individuals can thrive.

Dear Kanye,

You said, “Impossibility is a myth,” and you set out to prove that impossibility was nothing when you created the largest art canvas in the world at 12,303.87square meters

You are Brave, Audacious, and Tenacious.

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Congratulations on your recognition. Your story… pic.twitter.com/4RC5K4tS5r

— Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) April 3, 2025

“I encourage all Nigerians to embrace neurodiversity, advocate for inclusion, and work together to create a society where every individual has the opportunity to excel,” she said.

Surrounded by his family, including his grandfather and close friends, Tagbo-Okeke was lauded as a champion of artistic excellence. His record-breaking artwork, Impossible is a Myth, symbolises hope for autistic children worldwide.

His parents expressed immense pride, highlighting that their son’s achievement is a testament to dedication and belief in one’s potential.

Autism spectrum disorder affects social interactions and communication. However, experts and advocates stress the importance of recognising the unique talents of individuals on the spectrum and ensuring they have opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.