AkzoNobel supports inspirational global artist, Sacha Jafri for world record attempt
AKZA; AKZOY
Celebrated artist Sacha Jafri is attempting to create the largest painting ever created on canvas – and he’s using AkzoNobel’s Dulux products to paint his way into the record books.
Jafri’s Humanity Inspired project – which aims to raise $30 million for charitable causes within health and education, and to connect 1bn people around the world – involves creating a painting 160 meters long (larger than two soccer pitches laid end-to-end). He’s already been in lockdown at Atlantis, The Palm, from the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak where his ambitious artwork entitled ‘The Journey of Humanity’ is being created.
But he isn’t doing it alone. He’s invited children around the world to send in drawings themed around isolation and connection, which he’ll paste into circular portals inside his mammoth painting. They’ll act as windows intended to lead us to a better tomorrow, through the eyes of the child.
“We’ve always believed that paint has the power to transform people’s lives and this is a fantastic way for us to support an amazing initiative through our global ‘Let’s Colour’ program,” says Rinske van Heiningen, Director of Sustainability at AkzoNobel. “The Humanity Inspired project aligns perfectly with our own commitment to inspiring communities through color and we’re delighted to have an exclusive paint partnership with such a visionary and exciting artist.”
Adds Jafri:
My initiative, ‘Humanity Inspired’ aims to be a catalyst for true societal change through the HEARTS, MINDS & SOULS of the children of the world – a springboard for a better future for ALL Humanity. I aim to connect the world, and re-connect Humanity to ourselves, each other, and ultimately ‘The Soul of the Earth’. ‘I am delighted to have the support of Dulux and AkzoNobel in this world breaking project which has been called the ‘largest, artistic, social and philanthropic initiative in history’
Jafri’s project is being supported by Dubai Cares, UNICEF, UNESCO and the Global Gift Foundation charity, and also has the backing of the UAE government.
Once the work is completed, the canvas will be split into 60 individually framed, numbered, signed and catalogued artwork pieces and sold via an online charity auction.
Jafri – dubbed “The Pioneer of Magical Realism” – is one of our most celebrated living artists, whose work is owned by the likes of Barack Obama, Bill Gates, George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio and Madonna.
AkzoNobel’s global “Let’s Colour” program was launched in 2009. More than 2,000 projects have been completed to date, bringing positive benefits to well over 68 million people. For more information, visit letscolourproject.com
About AkzoNobel
AkzoNobel has a passion for paint. We’re experts in the proud craft of making paints and coatings, setting the standard in color and protection since 1792. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. Headquartered in the Netherlands, we operate in over 80 countries and employ around 35,000 talented people who are passionate about delivering the high performance products and services our customers expect. The sale of our Specialty Chemicals business is expected to be completed by the end of 2018. For more information please visit www.akzonobel.com.