Accra, Feb. 23, – Ghanaian visual artist Sharon Dede Padi has secured recognition from Guinness World Records as the first holder of the Largest Leaf Print Painting title.
The record-setting artwork spans 54.33 square metres and captures Ghana’s history and cultural identity using impressions from a variety of leaves, including neem and plantain. Each leaf type symbolically represents specific communities and aspects of national heritage.
Ms Padi said the project was more than an artistic milestone.
“With each leaf print, this record becomes a megaphone amplifying the silent calls of our plants, the rustle of leaves, and the crushing sound when trees are felled for galamsey or charcoal production,” she stated.
She explained that preparations for the attempt began with weeks of reviewing potential Guinness categories before settling on the leaf print concept. After receiving approval, she assembled a team, sourced leaves from the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana, and commenced work on December 28, 2024.
By the next day, 39 square metres had been completed. However, a subsequent update in record requirements necessitated an extension of the canvas. The final piece was completed on July 3, 2025, at the National Theatre of Ghana.
Describing the journey as a “symphony of effort,” Ms Padi expressed appreciation to her team, supporters, UNESCO for technical guidance, and Guinness World Records for the official certification.
Beyond the record, she emphasised the artwork’s environmental advocacy. The leaf prints collectively form the Ghanaian flag, symbolising the vital role of crops such as mango, maize, cassava, cocoyam and plantain in food security, medicine, festivals and traditional rites, while underscoring the need to protect vegetation against deforestation and illegal mining.
Ms Padi revealed plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts to display the piece at a tourist site under the Black Star Experience initiative, as well as pursue international exhibitions.
She also announced intentions to expand her foundation to nurture artistic talents among children and called on government, traditional authorities, institutions and individuals to support the initiative.
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