Driven by Passion and Purpose, Nigerian Woman Begins 150-Hour Painting Marathon for Guinness Record Attempt

 

A young artist from Nigeria has launched herself into the spotlight with a bold and inspirational act of creative endurance. Olivea Lawson, a vibrant and passionate painter hailing from Bonny Island in Rivers State, is currently in the midst of a 150-hour nonstop painting marathon. The goal? To shatter the Guinness World Record for the longest painting session ever recorded.

Starting on July 21st and scheduled to conclude on July 27th, 2025, this ambitious endeavor is more than a personal milestone for the 26-year-old artist known by her artistic alias, Holiveah. It is a powerful display of resilience, national pride, and the limitless possibilities that come with dedication to one’s craft.

Support has been pouring in as the marathon gains traction among local and international audiences. Art enthusiasts, cultural custodians, and curious onlookers are flocking to witness what many describe as a historic moment in Nigerian contemporary art. Lawson’s studio has become a hub of energy, with traditional music, live storytelling, and interactive art experiences serving as a backdrop to the record-breaking attempt.

What makes Lawson’s mission especially compelling is her unwavering commitment to a cause much bigger than herself. With each stroke of her brush, she is spotlighting the power of Nigerian creativity and challenging long-held narratives about what young African women can achieve on the global stage.

“This is more than a record,” Lawson told reporters while taking a brief rest between canvases. “It is a celebration of talent, consistency, and a message to every young girl who has ever doubted her potential. We can take our dreams as far as we dare to imagine.”

The Paint-A-Thon is deeply rooted in cultural relevance. Through the marathon, Lawson is producing works that echo the soul of Nigeria, focusing on themes such as hope, resilience, unity, and the richness of African heritage. Each painting is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the people, blending traditional motifs with modern techniques to create a vibrant narrative of identity and strength.

Spectators have been captivated by the evolving murals that come to life as hours pass. Some paintings depict rural village scenes filled with laughter and bustling life, while others show symbolic portraits of women in regal poses, inspired by queens of various Nigerian ethnic groups. The stories embedded in these pieces resonate with many, making the event not just an artistic showcase but also a cultural awakening.

Local businesses and organizations have also joined in, offering support through sponsorships, refreshments, and publicity. Rivers State officials have expressed their pride, noting that Lawson’s endeavor has not only brought national recognition to the region but has also highlighted the importance of arts in youth development.

Meanwhile, messages of encouragement have been flowing in on social media, with hashtags like #PaintWithHoliveah and #NigeriaOnCanvas trending across platforms. Some users have even begun sharing their own art inspired by Lawson’s journey, turning the event into a participatory movement.

Lawson’s attempt is being monitored closely by Guinness World Records officials, who have laid out specific criteria including continuous painting without prolonged breaks, documentation of each hour, and the originality of all submitted artwork. Volunteers are working in shifts to assist with technical logistics, nourishment, and timekeeping to ensure every guideline is strictly adhered to.

Though the physical demands are immense, Lawson remains focused and energized by the wave of positivity surrounding her. The paint marathon is not just testing her stamina, it is also testing the endurance of hope, creativity, and communal support. The energy in the room is said to be contagious, with many visitors noting how inspired they felt after witnessing even a few minutes of the process.

This six-day painting journey is a vivid reminder of what can happen when art intersects with purpose. As the hours stretch on and the canvases fill with color, Olivea Lawson’s dream is taking form not just in brushstrokes but in the hearts of those watching her make history.

By the time the clock winds down on July 27th, Nigeria might just have another reason to celebrate. And whether the record falls or not, the message behind this artistic marathon is already making a mark far deeper than any world title could.