Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, a 15-year-old Nigerian with autism, has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest art canvas. His painting, unveiled on World Autism Day, April 2, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, measures an impressive 12,303.87 square meters (over 132,000 square feet). The vibrant masterpiece features a large turquoise and coral infinity symbol at its center, symbolizing awareness and acceptance.
It also includes various facial expressions depicting different emotions. Okeke’s mother, Silva Tagbo-Okeke, explained that although her son does not speak, his art allows him to communicate his story. Okeke’s artistic journey began early, with his parents discovering his autism around the age of 2 or 3.
Nigerian teen’s art raises awareness
They encouraged him to use painting as a form of expression. By age 8, Okeke had already gained international recognition, receiving the Flame of Peace award in Austria for the positive impact of his art.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised the young artist as “brave, audacious, and tenacious” for his achievements. Okeke’s father, Tagbo Okeke, noted the purity and focus his son exhibits while painting, saying, “The way he uses his art to express himself, the colors he mixes, and the vigor with which he works reflect his dedication and unique perspective.”
Okeke’s success is seen as a beacon of hope for children with special needs and their caregivers. His parents believe this accomplishment highlights the boundless potential of people with autism and reinforces the importance of inclusion and neurodiversity.
The Guinness World Record title, previously held by Emad Salehi with a canvas of 9,652 square meters, is now part of Okeke’s ongoing mission to promote autism awareness. This achievement is not just a personal milestone for Okeke but also a significant step in advocating for greater understanding of autism, demonstrating that with support, individuals with autism can achieve extraordinary feats.
