A Folk Art-inspired 60th Anniversary Family Tree Keepsake for Pakistani Parents
Crafting a Custom Family Tree Painting for a couple’s 60th wedding anniversary is always a privilege, but this project, commissioned by a client for his parents in Pakistan, sparked a special excitement. Each international order is a chance for me to dive into a country’s art and culture, which I love because whenever I work on a family tree illustration that’s going to another country, I view it as an opportunity to discover something new about that country.
To create a painting that honored the family’s roots, I immersed myself in Pakistan’s rich artistic heritage, uncovering a treasure trove of bright colors, floral motifs, and geometric patterns that captivated me. Inspired by Pakistani folk art, I envisioned a family tree unlike any I’d painted before, with curvy branches, paisley leaves, and names written in a font echoing Urdu’s elegant script. The result was a decorative, folk-style illustration bursting with cheerful hues, reflecting the vibrancy of Pakistan’s cultural tapestry.
The couple’s favorite vacation spot, Dal Lake, became the painting’s heart. I depicted the parents in a brightly painted boat gliding across its shimmering waters, with the lake’s colorful houses lining the banks as a stunning backdrop. This breathtaking setting grounded the artwork in their cherished memories. The family tree “grew” from the lake, its eight branches (one for each sibling’s family) adorned with distinctively colored leaves to distinguish each family branch. The couple’s children and grandchildren’s names filled the leaves, creating a lively tribute to their sprawling family. I painted each one of the siblings to highlight their personalities through their hobbies and passions in life.
What touched me most was the couple’s enduring bond, evident in photos of them holding hands after 60 years, their contentment radiating warmth. Their heartwarming love inspired my every brushstroke, making the painting a true celebration of their lifelong commitment to one another.
If you’re searching for a meaningful 60th anniversary gift to honor your parents, grandparents, or loved ones, visit my portfolio to see how I can weave their story and heritage into a bespoke family tree sure to become a cherished family heirloom. Let’s create a unique gift for them together.
Medium: Watercolor, Acrylic, and Ink on watercolor paper