History of Truck Art
Each art form possesses an intricate history that shares a story of its origins and evolution. In Pakistan, the phenomena of truck art can be traced back to the 1920s, when a modified version of this artistic expression emerged in the subcontinent. Initially adorning trucks and Lorries utilized for transporting goods, these embellishments featured sizable wooden prows atop the vehicles and ornate bumpers around the cabins.
During the 1940s, Sikh truck drivers adopted this practice, adorning their vehicles with vibrant portraits depicting their revered Sikh deities and gurus, symbolizing their religious beliefs. This trend was later embraced by Muslim truck drivers, who depicted prominent Sufi saints on their trucks and Lorries, establishing a profound association between the drivers and their vehicles (Paracha, 2016).
When parked together at truck stops, this collective artwork resembled a multicolored scenic panorama, reflecting the collaborative efforts of various truck artists who spent days and months enhancing the allure of their vehicles. Post-1947, following Pakistan's independence, truckers began incorporating additional elements, such as peacocks and flying horses, to augment the visual appeal of their art.
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Before the 1970s, truck art predominantly featured portraits of revered figures and spiritual icons, occasionally incorporating cultural motifs. Subsequently, in the early 1970s, floral patterns and calligraphy began adorning these vehicles, drawing inspiration from the kaleidoscopic style seen on billboards advertising Pakistani movies. Initially witnessed on minibusses, truck drivers later embraced this stylistic evolution.
By the late 1970s, international celebrities, including figures like Bruce Lee, started appearing on trucks, capturing the attention of European and American tourists. Enthralled by this art form, these visitors took images of the embellished trucks back to their home countries. Recognizing its popularity, the Pakistani government and proponents of truck art began organizing exhibitions abroad. Consequently, truck art has evolved into a revered "folk piece of creativity" hailing from Pakistan, celebrated and recognized internationally. (Lareeada, 2021)
