Iranian painter Mahnoush Abbasgholy embarked on a Guinness Record act – a live painting session for seven days at a stretch (sunrise to sunset) from January 15 to 21. As the clock ticks ahead, and litres and litres of paint find their way onto a series of canvasses that together comprise a 40m long painting depicting the essence of Oman, she has a steadfast focus, that ‘art touches humanity’

For the first time in Oman, Iranian painter Mahnoush Abbasgholy has sought to spread the essence of Oman throughout the world by taking up an ambitious project – a 40m painting titled ‘Sparkles of Oman’ – that is set to enter the Guinness Book of World Records.

The art – Guinness Record painting, embarked upon by the artist on January 15, will be completed over a week concluding on January 21. The artist has been painting nonstop from sunrise to sunset with just five-minute breaks every hour and her effort will be evaluated and attested by Guinness officials on completion.

“I have only done the miniature of the painting before but the actual effort will clock around 100 hours,” says Mahnoush, adding, “Oman is my inspiration, this beautiful country is a kaleidoscope of nature, interwoven with rich heritage and culture. As an artist, art becomes my medium of expression and my tool to give back to the country that is my second home now.”

The main inspiration behind the project, she says, is to make her art a part of the 5^th Anniversary of Oman’s Renewed Renaissance. “With my attempt to Guinness World Records, I want to create a milestone for the Sultanate of Oman globally.”

The live painting session is currently on at the beach lawns of Shangri La Barr al Jissah resort. The 15-hour schedule begins at 5am and ends around 8pm every day.

“I have a style of my own. I use acrylic paints interwoven with gold and silver leaves,” says Mahnoush explaining that the 40m long painting comprises 23 canvasses which will display Oman’s mesmerising landscapes, city lights, beaches, mountains and bio diversity captured in a unique abstract style.

According to GWR guidelines, a team that includes witnesses, specialists, time keepers, log book recordists, videographers and photographers are keeping track of the art – Guinness Record which will be submitted for final certification once complete. It stands to beat the existing record of a 100-hour marathon painting.

In a tete-a-tete with Muscat Daily, Mahnoush discloses a few more details of her experience:

What factors keep you connected to Oman?

Oman and its beauty is my inspiration. By this GWR attempt, I am giving my best to Oman. Oman is my muse. I am grateful for the opportunities as an artist this nation has given me. The GWR certification is an attempt as an artist, an accomplishment to prove art can be disciplined, it can be exhausting, it can be fulfilling without any limitations or boundaries. However, as a human being, I believe art touches humanity and I am giving away this piece of art in auction for a higher cause to the NGO Children First association in the Sultanate of Oman. Children are our future and every one of us are responsible for their well-being.

What would you say is the best part of this task every day?

I am exhilarated with my paintings at this point, the colours vibe with the sunset and sunrise I am witnessing every day. Holding on to my painting brush is the best part of my day, every day. By the way, I have already clocked over 50 hours (on Saturday).

What hurdles have you faced and how did you overcome those?

The non-stop painting hours are very strenuous, but never a hurdle. I wouldn’t say I have hurdles, but any painting challenge is worth all the hurdles for me. The 5-minute break per hour is little tough as per GWR guidelines, the distance to the rest room or to my room here at Shangri la is not a 5-minute dash. So, I accumulate some 20 minutes (after 4 hours of painting) and then rush for the break of 20 minutes.

So far, how many litres of paint have you used?

I cannot say it in litres, but so far, I have 121 cans of 500ml acrylic paints in front of me, most of them half finished. I don’t know how much more I would require, but on the 4th day I have completed almost 50% of the images. There is much more to go. I will be using silver and gold leaves for the final touch.

Did you undertake any exercises to strengthen your arms?

I have been preparing for this feat, many months now, mostly for the longest painting ever done in Oman by an individual – all 23 canvasses put together comes to 41.4m long. I am human, and by the end of a few hours, my fingers, arm as well back takes the toll. But the happiness of taking up this painting adventure blurs all the pains. During the break, I do some stretching exercises.

How satisfied are you, so far, with your progress?

I think, like every other artist, it is never enough. Sparkles of Oman is created with passion and creativity, I am happy at how these paintings are coming about. The 23 images (in this art – Guinness Reord act) are reflections of Oman at its best.

Did you face any unforeseen problem in this art – Guinness Record task?

Only if it rains!  Otherwise, by the grace of the Almighty, I feel protected. Finally, this painting is going to be auctioned for a noble cause, to the Children First Association.  I believe, there is goodness all around – from the host Shangri-La, to all my sponsors (OQEP, Taageer Finance, DR Marjan Cosmetics) who believed in my project and are supporting me, including Sheikh Ahmed Shuweidan al Balushi.

Are you mentally jostling with any fear/concern about the success?

No, I am not fearful or nervous. This is more of a creative challenge to me, an artist’s vision of this beautiful country Oman, my second home. I I am confident I will complete this 7-day live painting, and that I consider my success.