Want To Break A World Record From Home Tomorrow?

Online class aims to attract 10,000 participants and raise money for COVID-19 appeal

Entrepreneur First, the leading global talent investor, is teaming up with renowned children’s author and illustrator, Rob Biddulph (Blown Away, Odd Dog Out), and world-leading book publisher HarperCollins in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest online art lesson on 21st May at 4pm BST (8am PST).

The challenge, conceived by Entrepreneur First’s President Sam Barnett, is free to join for parents and children, and will see Rob Biddulph instruct participants of all ages on how to draw a blue whale, one of Rob’s best loved characters, from their homes.

Rob Biddulph’s #DrawWithRob online lessons have captured the nation’s attention since the lockdown began, with over three million households tuning in to join his draw-along videos.

To break the record for the world’s largest online art lesson, at least 10,000 unique users need to join and actively participate in the lesson for no less than thirty full minutes. All evidence will be submitted to the Guinness World Records post-event for review and approval.

In addition to bringing people together in an attempt to set a new world record, the challenge aims to raise money for high impact charities working in the fight against COVID-19.

In order to raise money, companies are also encouraged to join the attempt, with employers asked to pledge £10 for every employee that attends the lesson. Donations from participating companies will go to charities recommended by Founders Pledge, including those involved in stopping the spread of the disease, providing immediate relief to those most affected and preventing future pandemics.

Art World Records will host all pledging company logos on their site following the Guinness World Records attempt.

Sam Barnett, President of Entrepreneur First, comments:
“As a parent, an artist and business leader myself, I wanted to find a way to bring these components together during this uniquely challenging time.

"Overnight, the world went into lockdown and parents everywhere were suddenly faced a new daily challenge; trying to balance work with educating, entertaining and caring for children at home.

"As a result, initiatives like #DrawWithRob have become extremely popular - offering a bit of relief for parents and providing children with some educational fun, which we want to build on further.

"The Guinness World Records attempt is an opportunity to unite people of all ages and backgrounds in an enjoyable and safe way.

"Not only does it help to reinforce the #StayAtHome message, but it gives people a chance to make history at home.

“The benefit of art and creativity on mental health and mindfulness should not be underestimated in the current circumstances.

"For that reason, I hope that many companies will join Entrepreneur First in getting behind this initiative to bring teams in isolation together and help raise money to combat to impact of COVID-19.”

Rob Biddulph, children’s author and illustrator, comments:
“I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the response to #DrawWithRob so far.

"What began as a way to bring a bit of fun and excitement to children across the country (and a bit of respite to their parents!) has quickly turned into a routine that’s making people feel connected to something bigger than themselves.

"The lessons have become great way of bringing people together and bridging divisions at a time when we all really need it most.

“I have three daughters myself, so I knew how parents would be feeling when the schools closed, worrying about how to juggle working from home with childcare. But it's been great to see how many adults have been joining in with the sessions, too.

"I’ve received lots of messages from people telling me how much they’re enjoying spending quality time with their children and grandchildren.

"I hope that by participating in our attempt to create the world’s largest art lesson more people both young and old from all around the world can enjoy taking thirty minutes out of their day to sit down and rediscover one of life's simple pleasures.”



For parents and children: to be part of making history from home, register for free now at www.artworldrecords.com

For employers: to partner up to donate and register employees for the event visit https://www.artworldrecords.com/