
Lance Corporal Pabby Saraphina, a Ghanaian police officer who rose to national prominence for her ambitious attempt to break a Guinness World Record in painting, has passed away. Her death followed a brief, undisclosed illness, occurring just months after she captivated the nation with her artistic endurance. Saraphina had recently been transferred to Kasoa to continue her professional duties with the Ghana Police Service before her untimely passing.
In September 2024, Saraphina embarked on a 120-hour painting marathon that ran from September 20 to September 25. During this intensive five-day period, she produced 105 distinct paintings, drawing inspiration from nature and the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture. Her effort was not merely a personal challenge but a mission to elevate the profile of female artists in Ghana and challenge prevailing gender norms within the creative industry. Supported by her colleagues in the police service, she used the platform to advocate for greater recognition of women in the arts.
Beyond her record attempt, Saraphina was a dedicated officer who sought to bridge her two worlds of law enforcement and artistic expression. She had previously participated in another drawing marathon earlier in the year and held long-term aspirations of establishing a permanent art gallery to showcase her extensive collection. While the specific circumstances surrounding her death remain private, her legacy remains tied to her contribution to promoting Ghanaian art and her attempt to place the country on the global stage of endurance artistry.