Art on wheels depict Pakistan-Australia ties
MOVE AIMED TO STRENGTHEN TIES BETWEEN COUNTRIES
Two buses showcasing artworks by Pakistani-Australian artists and portraying the famous landmarks of the two countries have hit the road in Pakistan.
The buses will travel across the country throughout the year to amplify the message of friendship. The project aimed to develop cultural connections between the two countries will also encourage interaction between the people of two countries, primarily connected by a shared passion for cricket.
“As Covid-19 lockdowns impacted cities in Australia, Pakistan and around the world, we found new ways of connecting creatively with each other, share messages of love, positivity and hope, and supporting artists during this challenging time,” Australian High Commissioner Dr Geoffrey Shaw told Gulf News.
Top artists participate
The Australian High Commission supported the project to convert two public buses into artwork on wheels portraying the most popular images from the two countries. Pakistani-Australian artists, Imran Ahmad and Fatima Saeed, in collaboration with local emerging artists and students, worked on the project at a workshop held at Saeed Akhtar Studio Lahore and Lok Virsa Islamabad. Other prominent artists including Amal Nadeem, Ali Laraib Rizvi and Nisar Ahmed also participated in the project.
“Through this project, Imran and I have been able to celebrate the uniqueness and similarities of both the countries we call home. The diversity and inclusiveness that we experienced while living in Australia,
left an indelible mark,” said Fatima Saeed, a visual artist.
Landmarks on display
The historic and cultural landmarks portrayed on the buses include Badshahi Mosque and the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge connecting the K-2 peak in Pakistan with Three Sisters rock formation in Australia. It also features Australia’s natural landmark Uluru and Sydney Opera House.
Flags of the two countries have been painted with the words “Pakistan Australia friendship” on the front. Australia is home to over 91,000 Pakistanis, according to a 2019 Australian Bureau of Statistics survey. Most of them are skilled migrants, professionals and students.