Speaking on Channels Television, Abidemi reflected on the physical and mental preparation behind the attempt. She undertook rigorous training, even hitting the gym at midnight, to build the stamina required for what would become one of the longest artistic marathons in history.
During the record-setting stretch, she completed 15 intricate portraits, spanning an eclectic mix of global and local figures. Among her subjects were President Bola Tinubu, King Charles III, and Bishop David Oyedepo. She even responded to live requests from her digital audience, sketching football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to maintain momentum.
Art as Therapy: A Personal Journey
Abidemi’s dedication to her craft is rooted in a deeply personal story. She began drawing at just 10 years old as a form of “art therapy,” seeking solace from the trauma of domestic violence she witnessed growing up.
“I didn’t know it was called art therapy at the time,” she admitted, describing how her early sketches of scribbles and broken lines offered a private outlet to process her experiences.
After relocating to the United Kingdom, she spent years working jobs that distanced her from her easel. The GWR attempt represented more than a record; it was a symbolic “launch back” into her artistic life. While her mother initially encouraged her to pursue traditional careers in medicine or law, Abidemi stayed true to the wishes of her late father, who had always championed her artistic talent. Today, her mother has become her biggest supporter, often sitting beside her as she works.
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| Abidemi Praise Omowarola, the Guinness World Record (GWR) holder for the longest marathon of drawing portraits. (Photo: Nebianet Usaini/Channels TV) |
Nigeria’s Rising Guinness World Record Era
Abidemi joins a growing roster of Nigerians who have embraced GWR attempts, helping to position the country as a global hub for record-breaking achievements. Recent examples include:
- Tunde Onakoya (Chess) – In April 2024, the chess master and “Chess in Slums” founder played for 60 hours in Times Square, New York, raising over $100,000 for underprivileged African children.
- Clara Chizoba Kronborg (Interviewing) – The Marbella-based media personality broke the record for the longest interviewing marathon at 55 hours and 24 minutes, amplifying African narratives globally.
- Pelumi Nubi (Travel) – Early in 2024, Pelumi completed a solo drive from London to Lagos, traversing 17 countries and inspiring millions with a testament to resilience and adventure.
- Hilda Baci (Cooking) – Her 93-hour “Cook-a-thon” in 2023 arguably sparked Nigeria’s current GWR wave, motivating young Nigerians to pursue marathon attempts across diverse fields.
| Record Holder | Achievement | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Tunde Onakoya | 60-Hour Chess Marathon | Raised $100k+ for underprivileged children |
| Clara Kronborg | 55-Hour Interview Marathon | Championed African storytelling globally |
| Pelumi Nubi | London-to-Lagos Solo Drive | Highlighted Nigerian resilience and travel |
| Abidemi Praise | 90-Hour Portrait Marathon | Showcased art as a tool for trauma recovery |
With her record-breaking marathon, Abidemi has not only cemented her place in the annals of world records but has also shone a light on art as a means of healing, endurance, and global storytelling.