Segun Ajao, better known as Mystro Artz, is a visual artist based in Ibadan and a student at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, who is attempting the Guinness Book of Records for the longest marathon drawing portraits. In this interview with ROTIMI IGE, he talks about his art, background, and his upcoming Guinness World Record attempt.
How would you describe your style of art?
I create art to tell real African stories and show deep human emotions. My work combines portrait drawing and abstract art, deeply influenced by Yoruba culture. A special detail in my portraits is the sculpted shape of the eyebrows, which stands for oju inu (inner vision), seeing people for who they really are inside, not just on the outside.
How does your culture affect your work?
Yoruba heritage and traditional proverbs form the heart of my work. Sayings like oju inu la fi n gbe tita help me build my themes. I use art to celebrate African identity and pass down meaningful cultural values.
What main topics do you paint or draw about?
I focus on human relationships, family roots, and inner growth. For example, my series BOND looks at the special connection between twins, while artworks like ?m? Y? mi and Iriri L’agba focus on identity and wisdom passed down through generations.
What materials do you use in your studio?
I use oil, acrylic paints, charcoal and mixed media. I also like adding texture to my work using modeling paste of paint to make the surface feel alive.
Which Guinness World Record are you trying to break?
I am preparing for the Longest marathon drawing portraits (individual). The goal is to draw continuously for 150 hours in Ibadan under the title The Unbroken Line.
Why do you want to do a 150-hour drawing marathon?
I want to push my strength to the limit, showcase Ibadan’s creative talent to the world, and show that young African artists can break big global records through hard work.
How are you getting ready for this challenge?
A 150-hour marathon takes a lot of energy. I am preparing through long drawing practice sessions, physical workouts, good food, and spiritual focus to keep my strength up.
What do you want young artists in Nigeria to learn from this?
I want them to know that their talent is valuable, their dreams are valid, and they can achieve great things no matter where they start from.
How can people support your journey?
Everyone can follow my progress on Instagram and all social media @mystro artz. We are also open to media partnerships, sponsorships, and support from the community.