Ghanaian visual artist Sharon Dede Padi has etched her name in global history after being certified by Guinness World Records as the first-ever holder of the Largest Leaf Print Painting record.
Her groundbreaking artwork, measuring 54.33 square metres, captures Ghana’s rich history and cultural identity through carefully arranged leaf prints, including neem, plantain, and other indigenous plants, each representing specific communities and traditions.
Ms. Padi described the project as a powerful environmental statement.
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“With each leaf print, this record becomes a megaphone that amplifies the silent calls of our plants and the crushing sound made whenever a tree is felled in the name of galamsey or charcoal production,” she said.
Ms. Padi revealed that her record-breaking journey began with weeks of research into potential Guinness categories before settling on the leaf print concept.
After receiving approval, she assembled a dedicated team and sourced natural materials from the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana. The project officially began on December 28, 2024.
By the next day, the team had completed 39 square metres of the artwork. However, a change in Guinness requirements forced them to expand the canvas and extend the project timeline.
The final piece was completed on July 3, 2025, at the National Theatre of Ghana, marking the end of months of intensive creative work.
Describing the experience as emotionally and physically demanding, Ms. Padi referred to the process as a “symphony of effort.”
She expressed appreciation to her team, supporters, UNESCO for technical guidance, and Guinness World Records for international validation.
According to her, the achievement goes beyond personal success and serves as a strong advocacy tool for environmental protection.
“This work speaks for our forests, our rivers, and our future,” she noted.
The leaf prints collectively form the Ghanaian flag, symbolising the importance of plants such as mango, plantain, maize, cassava, and cocoyam in food systems, traditional medicine, festivals, and spiritual practices.
Ms. Padi said the artwork highlights the shared ecological and cultural heritage of Africa, while drawing attention to deforestation and illegal mining.
Following her historic feat, Ms. Padi announced plans to partner with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts to install the artwork at a major tourist site under the Black Star Experience initiative.
She also disclosed intentions to take the exhibition international and expand her foundation to nurture artistic talent among children.
“We must invest in the next generation of creatives and protect our environment at the same time,” she said.
Ms. Padi further appealed to government agencies, traditional leaders, institutions, and private individuals to support her vision of using art as a tool for national development and environmental advocacy.
GNA