Policewoman who attempted 120-hour GWR in painting challenge dies - Reports

Ghanaian policewoman, Lance Corporal Pabby Saraphina, who attempted to set a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest painting marathon in 2024, has reportedly died after a short illness.

According to information reaching MyNewsGh.com, the police officer was recently transferred to Kasoa but passed away after falling ill. Details surrounding her death have not yet been disclosed.

Saraphina gained attention in September 2024 when she undertook a 120-hour painting marathon in Koforidua, Eastern Region, hoping to earn a place in the Guinness World Records.

The challenge began on September 20 and ended at 3:00 pm on September 25, 2024. During the five-day exercise, she produced 105 paintings inspired by nature and Ghanaian culture, surpassing the four-day record she was seeking to break.

In an interview with Starr News Eastern Regional Correspondent Kojo Ansah, Saraphina said she wanted to use her talent to promote female artists in Ghana and give them international recognition.

“I have been drawing for quite a long time, for so many years, and really wanted to bring out my art and show it to the world and promote female artists in Ghana and the world,” she said.

“I did 120 hours. I was actually planning on 110. I did a total of 105 paintings. I followed all the requirements, so I think I will get it,” she added.

The police officer also spoke about the challenges she faced as a woman pursuing art, revealing that some people had questioned her ability because they considered artwork a man’s job.

“Some people told me the artwork is men’s job, so they questioned my ability, but I didn’t give up,” she said.

Beyond the record attempt, Saraphina hoped to create more opportunities for her artwork and establish an art gallery where she could showcase her talent. She was also known for her pencil drawings and was awaiting the results of an eight-hour private drawing marathon she undertook months earlier.

Senior police officers, including Eastern Regional Police Commander DCOP Twumasi Ankrah, supported her 120-hour painting challenge and visited her alongside other officers to encourage her during the attempt.

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