A toddler from Ghana has become the world’s youngest artist, according to Guinness World Records.
Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, who was 1 year and 152 days old when he received the title, began painting when he was 6 months old.
His mother, Chantelle Kuukua Eghan, who is also an artist, needed to entertain her son as she worked on a piece she’d been commissioned to do for Miss Universe 2023.
The single mother decided to set her infant up with a canvas and some paint and was surprised by what he created by crawling around in the colors — and she appropriately named his first piece “The Crawl.”
“It was clear that he found a lot of joy in it,” Eghan told Guinness.
She was specifically in awe of her son’s color combinations.
“He was so intrigued by the bright colors,” Eghan told the BBC. “He already knows what colors complement each other.
“His paintings show someone who is intrigued about discovering things.”
Since learning to walk and talk, Ace-Liam now asks to paint in their home studio and stands at his mini easel with his own apron and paint palette. He usually calls for his mother to help him open whatever colors he chooses for the session, which can last anywhere from 5 minutes to several days.
“Once he’s done, he says, ‘Mama finish,’” Eghan revealed to Guinness.
“Every painting is an expression of his curiosity and joy in discovering new things.”
Ace-Liam quickly built a portfolio as he continued to create new, colorful creations — but they didn’t just fill up his mom’s fridge.
His work was exhibited at the Museum of Science and Technology in Ghana’s capital, Accra, from last December to early January.
Nine of the 10 show pieces sold — and Ghana’s first lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, who attended the exhibit, even commissioned work from him.
After taking part in a professional public exhibition and selling his work — the toddler has sold 15 pieces so far — he became eligible for the title of the world’s youngest artist, which he officially received last week.
“When I opened the email, I just broke down and thanked God,” Eghan told the BBC.
She hopes that this recognition will allow her son to find scholarships to nurture his talents, provide opportunities to sell his art internationally, shine a light on art appreciation and encourage others to foster children’s talents.
“Every child is unique, and nurturing their passions can lead to amazing discoveries and achievements,” the proud mother told Guinness.
