Every country one can think of has a unique art form that reminds the world of its culture and heritage. One such art form that best represents Pakistan is “Truck Art”.
Trucks in Pakistan are a walking proof of our culture and a worthy mode of expression. These highly adorned vehicles are considered as moving art and are quite distinct in lay out from other trucks of the world.
With Karachi being the main hub for such trucks, there are other cities in Pakistan, each city with its unique style of décor.
This art form, which is no less of a passion, however is big business in Pakistan. Which, in recent years has also become one of the most distinctive cultural exports.
Having always been intrigued by wonderful truck art, I set out to explore this vibrant form of art. Which took me to truck stands, locally known as “truck addas”, markets, as well as meeting highly skilled truck artists. However, this little journey does not end here, my journey of an in-depth study of truck art still continues.
Phool patti is the local term for truck art, with truck artists referred to as "phool patti walas".
A shop selling a wide variety of vibrant reflective stickers, locally known as "chammak patti".
Decoration for the interior.
A variety of mud flaps and reflective stickers seen in one of the shops.
Reflective lights used for both interior and exterior of large vehicles.
Hand crafted metallic plates which draw additional attention to the vehicle, are often adorned with poetry or one-liners.
Often hung on the rear-view mirror, these decorations hold religious significance and are considered as a blessing.
Internationally famous & highly skilled truck artist Haider Ali is the C.E.O. of the first registered Truck Art company "Phool Patti".
A truck at an open air workshop that is yet to be adorned according to individual taste and budget of the driver.
Mumtaz Ahmed, a master and director of "Phool Patti" draws a freehand bird, later to be painted.
Adding finishing touches using confident brush strokes.
Rich and vibrant colors used in truck art.
A strip of vibrant hand painted flowers.
Colorful metallic chains with bells.
Vibrant interior with elaborate mirror work.
A truck stand or “truck adda”, with trucks all distinct and unique in their beautification.
With Karachi being one of the main hubs, in recent years truck art has become one of the most distinctive cultural exports.
