Truck Art from Pakistan is back in Qatar
Qatar Museums (QM) has brought back Urban Truck Art Collective, renowned for their dynamic and colourful artistry from Karachi, Pakistan. As part of the future Art Mill Museum’s MANZAR: Art and Architecture from Pakistan 1940s to Today exhibition, this exciting live art project invited visitors to the National Museum of Qatar to experience and be inspired by the transformation of a truck into a vibrant, intricate masterpiece.
From 1 December to 16 December2024, artists will paint the truck at the National Museum of Qatar’s (NMoQ) Drop-off Area. Supported by Seashore and Qatar Auto Museum, the live-painting experience will offer the public a unique opportunity to watch the creative process in real-time, as the artists bring this extraordinary art form to life before their eyes, all while celebrating the colourful world of Pakistani truck art.
This live-painting initiative complements MANZAR: Art and Architecture from Pakistan 1940s to Today, which is on view until 31 January 2025, the first comprehensive exhibition in Qatar dedicated to exploring the artistic and architectural movements of Pakistan. Organised by the future Art Mill Museum and presented at NMoQ, the exhibition features over 200 works, including commissioned pieces by contemporary artists and architects, offering visitors an immersive experience of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Caroline Hancock, Art Mill Museum Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art and co-curator of MANZAR: Art and Architecture from Pakistan 1940s to Today said, “This live-painting experience is centred around connecting people with art and popular culture and is directly connected to the subjects and influences in the MANZAR exhibition. Urban Truck Art is literally bringing to life this month in Qatar a longstanding common practice of decoration in Pakistan on everyday modes of transportation, cooking utensils and other objects, or advertising. The inspiration is also embraced by artists in the exhibition in the galleries referencing the Urban Vernacular and what is often known as Karachi Pop from the 1990s onwards. This engaging project allows better understanding of the deep cultural stories behind the designs.”
The truck provided by Seashore with support from Qatar Auto Museum will be fully adorned with vibrant and colourful designs inspired by Pakistan’s heritage. Visitors can watch the artists in action, interact with them, and gain a deeper insight into this vibrant and evolving art form. The painting process highlights the skill, creativity, and cultural significance behind each design, illustrating the powerful connection between art and storytelling.
