In a bid to set a remarkable achievement, Nigerian art student, Chancellor Ahaghotu has broken a decade-old record for the longest painting marathon, showcasing extraordinary dedication by painting continuously for 100 consecutive hours.

Announced on Wednesday by the Guinness World Records across its social media platforms and website, Ahaghotu’s remarkable feat garnered attention.

The sophomore from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, significantly surpassed Roland Palmaerts’ 2013 record of 60 hours, displaying exceptional dedication and skill in this artistic endeavor.

Ahaghotu expressed his aspirations to Guinness World Records before commencing his record attempt, stating, “Icame to the United States to pursue my dreams and build up my career as a recognized artist. Breaking the record will boost my recognition as an artist both in my school and the world at large.”

During this record attempt, the rules allowed the participant to either focus on one substantial painting or create several, all required to depict recognizable images—abstract painting was not permitted.

Throughout four consecutive days, as stated by GWR, Ahaghotu dedicated himself tirelessly, completing an impressive 106 pieces encompassing various subjects such as celebrities, food items, plants, animals, and more.

At the 60th hour, marking his surpassing of the previous record, Ahaghotu portrayed a broken record player in his artwork.

Ahaghotu said “One thing I love about the paintings I created is that they were representing my different moods and how I was feeling when I created them.”

In line with the guidelines for all ‘longest marathon’ records, the challenger was granted a five-minute rest break for every hour of continuous activity—a provision allowing the accumulation of these breaks if not taken.

These brief respites constituted Ahaghotu’s only opportunities to attend to personal needs such as using the bathroom, eating, or sleeping throughout the duration of the challenge.

Around the 88-hour mark, Ahaghotu grappled with fatigue, yet his determination to achieve the 100-hour milestone kept him from considering an early end to the record attempt.

Initially intending to create one painting per hour, he diligently prepared 100 canvases with sketches in anticipation of the challenge.

Unexpectedly, he finished them all before the allotted time, prompting him to improvise a series of impromptu still lifes.

Finally, with some hours remaining, he concluded his marathon painting session with a portrayal of an exhausted individual.

He said “There was joy and celebration when I completed the 100 hours. It was a new experience for me and I’m so glad I completed the 100 hours.”

He further added “This [record] helps me feel a very high level of personal achievement, build up my career as a reputable artist, and pay a service to my school and country.”