ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan’s ruling elite celebrates the 76th Independence Day of the country, the working class, street vendors and entertainers, who are an integral part of society and play an important role in daily life often remain invisible.

In a first, a group of talented artists have highlighted the contributions of the street vendors, entertainers through their art showcased at Gallery 6 on Monday. The group show ‘Homage to Street Entrepreneurs’ was opened by Argentinian Ambassador Leopoldo F. Sahores.

The ambassador was impressed by the artworks. “Each artwork carries a story behind it. They are not just about objects but tell stories,” Mr Leopoldo said, while praising the artist for portraying street vendors skillfully.

The exhibit featured 20 artists from all over Pakistan, including painters, sculptors, ceramists, printmakers and photographers, each presenting two artworks that capture the positive aspects of street vendors’ lives.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Arjumand Faisel, the curator, said this exhibition was a tribute to street vendors who enriched lives in many colourful ways.

“Many of us carry fond memories from our childhood. The artworks aim to honour the contributions of street vendors through various art forms who play a significant role in society,” he said.

“Despite facing challenges in their own lives, street vendors and entertainers bring smiles to others through their services. The artworks focus on showcasing their resilience in earning a livelihood against all odds,” he added.

The theme of the exhibition resonates with the artists.

Farah Mahmood, a painter and art teacher, said it provided an opportunity for artists to reflect on the often-overlooked individuals who brought joy to people’s lives.

Ghafar Mohiuddin, a Lahore-based sculptor, chose to exhibit three sculptures portraying a ‘Madari’, ‘The Blind Watch Maker’, who repairs people’s watches with the hope that his own time will also change someday. The third is of ‘Joota Polish Wala’ (shoe shiner) who shines others’ shoes with hope that his life will someday shine too.

He emphasised the importance of these seemingly small roles in society’s management and needs.

Asrar Farooqi’s artwork reflects his deep interest in culture, heritage and archaeology. The two works presented in this exhibition depict traditional dhol (percussion) players waiting on the footpath, eager to be invited to perform.

The artists have skillfully painted and sculpted their childhood memories, personal connections to street vendors and the impact these vendors had on their lives.

Adnan has beautifully portrayed a girl and a child vendor. He has captured the emotions of children, firmly believing that there is a profound truth in their laughter and tears.

Ahsan Javaid has paid tribute to ‘Chawal Baichnay Wala’ and ‘Bakri Tamasha Wala’.

Amna Hashmi has presented the contribution of a fish seller and shop keeper.

The exhibition encompasses a variety of street vendors, from newspaper hawkers to puppeteers and to corncob seller. The artworks capture the essence of these individuals’ lives, shedding light on their resilience.

Many of the artists and the curator shared their encounters with a variety of street vendors such as the Golay Ganday Wala (crushed ice ball seller), Qulfi Wala (traditional South Asian ice-cream seller), Bhuttay Wala (corncob seller), who would gather outside the school gate, offering delicious treats during the mid-break.

“They would attract potential customers through creative presentations, catchy taglines, warm smiles and a welcoming attitude. The artists have recognised the value these street vendors bring to society through their services,” said Dr Arjumand, recalling his school and college days’ fond memories.

Street performers breathe life into the streets, momentarily lifting the burdens of life through laughter and awe. Yet, they, too, find themselves ensnared in a cycle of exploitation. They navigate the thin line between preserving cultural traditions and appeasing the demands of an evolving audience.

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2023