Nigerian doctor and hyper-realism artist, Fola David, has seamlessly blended the two to carve a unique niche for himself. Recently, David made headlines by achieving a new Guinness World Record for creating the largest drawing by an individual. This monumental artwork, spanning 1,000 square meters, not only showcases his artistic prowess but also highlights his deep connection to Nigerian culture.
Fola David, born Adefemi Gbadamosi, is a modern-day Nigerian superhero. By day, he serves as a dedicated medical doctor, and by night, he transforms into a renowned artist.
His latest achievement began on July 16 at Onikan Stadium in Lagos, where he embarked on a six-day journey to create a massive drawing celebrating Nigeria’s diverse cultures. This endeavor culminated in breaking the previous record of 629.98 square meters, a testament to his relentless dedication and exceptional talent.
David crossed the threshold into the world of art during his medical studies at the University of Lagos. Despite the rigorous demands of his medical training, he found solace and expression in art.
His early works focused on hyper-realistic portraits, painstakingly detailed to capture the essence of his subjects. This meticulous approach to art mirrored the precision required in his medical practice, creating a unique synergy between his two passions.
One of the most striking aspects of David’s artistic career is his ability to perform high-speed portraits, often completing a piece in under five minutes. These performances, where he paints upside down and reveals the final image with a dramatic flourish, have become a sensation on the Lagos club scene and beyond. His speed-painting acts have captivated audiences and drawn the attention of numerous celebrities, including musicians Patoranking and Trey Songz, and Yoruba King Ooni of Ife Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
Balancing his dual careers was not always easy. David initially struggled with the demands of medical school, feeling torn between his responsibilities as a student and his aspirations as an artist.
However, he persevered, earning his degree in Medicine and Surgery while continuing to develop his artistic skills. Today, he practices as a general practitioner, finding ways to integrate his medical knowledge into his art.
David’s work in dermatology, in particular, has influenced his art. His series titled “Skin” celebrates the beauty of individuals with skin conditions such as vitiligo and ichthyosis. These hyper-realistic portraits challenge conventional notions of beauty, highlighting the unique and often overlooked features that make each person special. Exhibited in universities and hospitals across Lagos, the “Skin” series has garnered international recognition, including a showcase at the Saatchi Other Art Fair in Chicago.
Beyond his artistic achievements, David is committed to using his platform for social good. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, he founded the Fola David Foundation, which provides medical outreach and education to underserved communities in Nigeria. Through his foundation, David has distributed facemasks, taught the importance of hand-washing, and provided free medical care across the country.
David’s tireless dedication to both medicine and art has not gone unnoticed. Last year, he was nominated for the Nigerian Medical Association’s Young Physician of the Year award. His work continues to inspire, bridging the gap between two seemingly disparate fields and demonstrating the power of passion and perseverance.
As Fola David continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, both in medicine and art, his story has become a source of inspiration. His record-breaking achievement is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of the rich culture of Nigeria. Through his dual careers, David exemplifies the idea that one can pursue multiple passions and excel in them, breaking barriers and setting new standards along the way.
