Taxis are bland as fuck. From nondescript interiors to LED meters that creep up far too quickly, catching a cab is hardly what you’d call memorable experience. Actually it would probably rank pretty low on most people’s fun-o-meter, no matter where you are in the world. Mumbai-based Taxi Fabric are trying to amend that.
This company in India is turning taxi rides into a vibrant, mildly psychedelic experience using cloth interiors designed by local artists.
From the Taxi Fabric website:
Taxis in India, particularly in Mumbai, are not only the most convenient form of transport but have also become an iconic piece of culture. Although much attention is given to each taxi by its driver – to make it stand out from his competitors – very little thought is given to the fabric used on the seats. The designs that cover the taxi seats are often functional and forgettable and with the outstanding design talent Mumbai has to offer, this shouldn’t be the case.
Design, as a job or even simply something studied at school, is unfortunately not widely recognised in India. Older generations don’t understand it- design to them, just performs a function. Many people don’t know that design can create a real impact. With so few spaces for young people to show off their skills, it’s hard to change that perception.
The awesome initiative has benefits for both cab drivers and local artists. Drivers who have dressed their taxis have reported higher tips and longer rides. On the other hand, local artists are having their work seen by a whole new audience (you can clearly see who the artist is on a label in attahced to the fabric). We reckon it’s a killer idea.
Taxis aren’t the only form of transportation getting these psychedelic makeovers – rickshaws across the country are being re-upholstered too. Check out a bunch of our favourite ones below.
You can also see more on their website.
[via The Creator’s Project]
