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I belong to a generation when owning a car was rare. It was a symbol of status within the locality. I vividly recall a time in our neighborhood, where within a radius of 7 to 8 kilometers, there was only one doctor who owned a vibrant red Honda City, a 1998/1999 model. Sometimes, I used to cycle 3 kilometers from our railway quarter just to catch a glimpse of this remarkable car. As it passed my friend's house between 8:30 and 8:40 in the morning. We would eagerly gather on my friend's balcony, awaiting the sight of that car. When it cruised through the lanes of Pradhannagar, Siliguri, our eyes, along with those of all the passersby, were glued to it. The car's color and model spoke about its owner's personality. Being a Honda, a model from Japan made it even more intriguing. The bold red color made a statement in itself. Thanks to the progress of our nation, now a greater number of people have been able to own cars since then. Consequently, having a car in a city like Kolkata is no longer a rarity; it's become common.
The human desire to personalize our possessions is as strong as ever, if not stronger. Now amid many cars, with the same model, it is difficult to single out one's car. The personality of a car and that of its owner can often be strikingly different. Many people may own a car of the same model, but each one becomes unique when it's with its owner. It's driven differently, parked differently, and even decorated differently, all to suit its owner's individuality. In today's world of self-expression and individuality, our vehicles frequently evolve into extensions of our personalities. Through this photo essay, I aim to explore the role that sticker plays in contemporary car culture in this era.
Car Stickers: Origins and Evolution
Car stickers have been around for decades, but they have come a long way from simple dealership logos and bumper stickers. The evolution of car stickers can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s, where political slogans, peace signs, and psychedelic art adorned bumpers, often representing the rebellious spirit of the era.
Over the years, car stickers transformed into a versatile medium of artistic expression. The range of sticker themes expanded as the automotive industry grew, encompassing motorsports, pop culture references, and more.
Personal Expression
One of the most compelling aspects of car artistic sticker is their role in personal expression. Car owners use stickers to communicate their interests, values, and affiliations. Whether it's an eco-conscious driver using environmental symbols or a pop culture enthusiast showcasing their favorite bands and movies, these stickers serve as a canvas for expressing individuality.
Conclusion
Car artistic stickers have evolved from simple decals to a medium of contemporary art and personal expression. They mirror the changing tastes and interests of car owners, providing a medium through which individuals can communicate their identity, values, and affiliations. In a world where everyone seeks to stand out, these stickers help us do just that while adding a splash of creativity to our daily commutes. The artistry of car stickers is here to stay, shaping the automotive landscape and ensuring that our vehicles are not just modes of transportation but a canvas for self-expression on four wheels.
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