ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: Amid the clatter of welding sparks and the scent of molten steel, sculptor Ehtisham Jadoon is breathing life into discarded metal. From heaps of old car parts and rusting sheets of steel emerge towering beasts — ibex with majestic horns, roaring lions, and even a 22-foot dinosaur named Maximus. These aren’t just sculptures; they are symbols of resilience, sustainability, and hope.
Jadoon’s journey into metal art came after years of experimentation in other fields, from textiles to construction. What started as an artistic outlet has transformed into a calling, with the artist spending nearly 14 hours a day shaping junk into art. “Welding burns you, I get burnt every day … the art may be difficult, but there’s a novelty to it,” he explains, underscoring the physical and emotional intensity of his craft.
Each creation is not just about artistry but community. Scrap workers, welders, and even those with hearing impairments have joined hands with Jadoon, embedding their own struggles and spirit into the sculptures. Together, they turn waste into wonders, blending labor and vision into massive steel masterpieces that weigh several tons.
Inspired by nature and popular culture, Jadoon’s art aims to reclaim what urban expansion has erased — wild beauty and a sense of awe. His dreams are no less ambitious: a 70-foot fire-breathing dragon standing proudly against the backdrop of the Passu Cones, transforming landscapes into living canvases. He believes art should not remain confined to galleries but should become a part of public life, sparking wonder in everyday spaces.
From planned showcases at Islamabad’s Centaurus Mall to future projects across Pakistan, Jadoon’s work is redefining what art means for local communities. It is about more than just aesthetics — it is a message that even in rust and ruin, there lies strength, spirit, and the power to inspire.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.