Adebayo Adenrele
…calls on Oyebanji for support
A 24-year-old English and Literary Studies graduate of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU), Obafemi Oni, is about to set a new 30-day painting marathon record in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
Obafemi, who began the Guinness World Record-approved paint-a-thon on September 11, has unofficially surpassed the current GWR for the longest painting marathon of 100 hours, set by Chancellor Ahaghotu, a Nigerian student at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Speaking with journalists on Saturday in Asa Garden, Bashiri area of the state capital where the attempt is going on, Obafemi revealed that he has completed 18 paintings in the first eighteen days of the marathon and remains determined to create more by the end of the 30-day paint-a-thon on October 11.
He explained that his paintings focus on themes such as cultism, drug abuse, activism, religion, and history.
When discussing the inspiration behind his attempt, Obafemi emphasized that his motivation extends beyond achieving recognition from GWR as he also aims to bring global attention to arts in Ekiti.
He also lamented the lack of attention given to paintings in Nigeria, noting that artists’ works often goes unnoticed, despite their efforts.
Obafemi called on Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, to support and acknowledge his efforts, stressing that the youth of the state are eager to break boundaries.
His words, “I understand my environment, and I know there are things that people here don’t fully appreciate.
“Art, to me, is different. Many students and people in the state have a mindset geared toward pursuing white-collar jobs. Little do they realize that opportunities in that space are limited. I’m trying to raise awareness where there currently isn’t any. There is no strong appreciation for the arts in Ekiti, and I’m working to change that perspective.
“This attempt has been approved by GWR in January, 2024 but I gave it more time to be able to do something different.
“What we do is that we go live and GWR already have record of everything I am doing here since September 11 and I only have 3 hours rest in a day.
“Many things we do here aren’t valued until they’re recognized outside the country. We are talented; there are many youths with remarkable talents, but without opportunities, we often shift our focus elsewhere.
“This marathon is my way of creating opportunities in Ekiti State. We’ve been at it for eighteen days, and the motivation and energy behind me are incredible. If I need to paint for 30 days to achieve this dream, I’m willing to do it, and more if needed.
“All we need from the state government is their support and acknowledgment, to show that something meaningful is happening here. We, the youth, are ready to work”.