Pakistani truck art: the moving galleries of the roads
Pakistani trucks are painted with flowers, birds, poetry and mirror work. Truck art has become a symbol of Pakistan around the world.
On Pakistan's roads, many trucks and buses are covered from bumper to roof in bright paintings. This is truck art.
What you'll see
- Flowers and birds, especially peacocks and parrots
- Landscapes, mountains and rivers
- Portraits of heroes and film stars
- Poetry and sayings, often on the back
- Chamak patti: shiny reflective tape cut into patterns
- Chains and bells that jingle as the truck moves
Why owners decorate
A truck is often a driver's home for weeks at a time. Decoration shows pride, and a beautiful truck can attract more business.
Around the world
Pakistani truck artists have decorated vehicles, walls and objects for exhibitions abroad, and the style is now used on everything from kettles to clothing.