Policewoman who attempted 120-hour painting marathon dies after short illness

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

Information reaching this portal indicates that Saraphina had recently been transferred to Kasoa before she fell ill and passed away. The circumstances surrounding her death have not yet been disclosed.

The policewoman attracted public attention in September 2024 when she embarked on a 120-hour painting marathon in Koforidua in the Eastern Region, seeking recognition in the Guinness World Records.

Her challenge began on September 20 and ended at 3:00 pm on September 25, 2024. Over the 5-day period, she produced 105 paintings inspired by nature and Ghanaian culture, exceeding the 4-day duration of the record she sought to break.

Speaking in an interview with Starr News Eastern Regional Correspondent Kojo Ansah, Saraphina said her ambition was to use her artistic talent to promote female artists in Ghana and help them gain 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.

Saraphina also recounted the challenges she encountered as a woman pursuing art, revealing that some people had questioned her abilities because they regarded artwork as a profession for men.

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

Beyond her record attempt, the officer hoped to expand opportunities for her work and establish an art gallery where she could exhibit her creations. She was also recognised for her pencil drawings and was awaiting the outcome of an 8-hour private drawing marathon she had undertaken months earlier.

Her 120-hour painting challenge received support from senior police officers, including Eastern Regional Police Commander DCOP Twumasi Ankrah, who visited her alongside other officers to encourage her during the exercise.