“I need these trainers"
British journalist and former wife of Prime Minister Imran Khan, Jemima Goldsmith has expressed her admiration for Pakistani truck art on Twitter.
Sharing pictures of the truck art that is regularly seen around Pakistan, Jemima recalled how she felt when she first came across it 27 years ago.
She also shared a photo of truck artist Haider Ali’s latest work on a pair of Nike trainers, which went viral.
Jemima Goldsmith said she would love to get her hands on the customised trainers.
In a tweet shared on January 8, 2022, the screenwriter wrote:
“When I first visited Pakistan 27 years ago, I thought there must be a carnival happening – every truck, bus, rickshaw and motorbike uniquely and lovingly decorated.
“I need these trainers as a memento.”
Haider Ali’s latest work has attracted enormous praise on social media.
The artist painted the familiar motifs of flowers and kohl-rimmed eyes over the shoes, leaving fans inquiring where they can get their hands on a pair.
Speaking about the customised shoes, Haider said:
“They were customised shoes so I thought why not highlight just my truck art on them. I mostly paint truck art.
“People really appreciate our designs and because this work isn’t seen anywhere else, people who see it for the first time really like it.”
Many social media users also questioned why his creations have not been given the chance to be a part of Dubai Expo 2020.
The 41-year-old Karachi-based painter made headlines in June 2020 for honouring George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement with an intricate mural.
The mural read:
“So what if we’re dark-skinned? We’ve got big hearts.”
It also featured another popular phrase: “Neither the blacks nor the whites, the world only belongs to those with big hearts.”
Haider Ali said that while truck art is a unique style that his fans respect, he is continually attempting to innovate his work.
While talking about his extensive work, the truck artist said:
“I have tried my hands on practically every element, from painting roundabouts, canvas, walls, to shrines and temples.”
Haider Ali further explained that while he works for a living, painting is also his passion, and he puts his heart and soul into every piece he creates.
Truck art has become a part of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
From intricately painted vehicles to colourful tableware, truck art can be spotted across the whole of Pakistan.
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