Trippin’ the Light Fantastic

This colourful redesign of the Post trucks is all thanks to Andrew Lewis, a creative director and graphic artist based in Ontario. He had worked with Canada Post before—sketching rad new stamps for us to lick and stick on parcels (I mean, who doesn’t?) But as COVID-19 began to set in, thousands were forced to stay at home (and not lick stuff). All except for front liners, which included doctors, nurses, and Canada Post workers, to name a few. 

psychedelic post truck driving
Designer Andrew Lewis wanted to thank Canada Post workers for their service during the pandemic. (Photo courtesy: alewisdesign.com/bio) 

So Lewis had a crazy idea: Why not thank postal workers for their bravery? And why not do it with my art? Lewis got started on a design quickly, originally meant for a coin-sized stamp. So how did the trippy rainbow end up on 40 four-wheeler Canada Post trucks? 

In an interview with CBC, Lewis recalls what happened: 

“I said, ‘Hey, wouldn’t it be funny if you took the design idea here and put it on a truck? I showed them a mock-up of a [psychedelic truck] as a joke, as something fun, and they sat there and said, ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’”

Thanks Merci

As you can see, “Thanks Merci” is painted in bright colours on both sides of the trucks. Set upon a dazzling backdrop of vibrant reds and cosy yellows. Thanks and Merci are expressions of gratitude — in English and French, respectively, to represent the two main languages of Canada.

The groovy design for Canada Post was meant to “spread joy and bring smiles to all Canadians” during the pandemic, says Lewis. (Photo courtesy: alewisdesign.com)

They started out with 6 vehicles last autumn, as a sort-of joke. But soon enough, these Canada Post trucks became a beacon of hope. Like the rest of the world (or wherever you’re reading this), it’s also been gloomy for Ontario. Especially for those who’ve lost their jobs since lockdowns first began. As Lewis explains:

“I made this fun, kind of psychedelic image because I wanted something really positive and happy, and this is a weird, gloomy and kind of oppressive time.” 

Lewis also says that public art — even the fun, light-hearted ones like the Canada Post Trucks — should give a useful message.

“Artwork that’s circulating in public should have some sort of responsibility. It had better be thought-provoking, and not just more visual noise.”

Symbols of Hope

psychedelic post truck driving down road
Thanks Merci! A brightly-coloured Post Truck brings joy and cheer to the chilly streets of Ontario. (Photo courtesy: alewisdesign.com)

During one of his walks, Lewis noticed colourful symbols of hope in people’s homes. He was inspired right away.

“A lot of people had rainbows in their windows and hearts and things like that last spring and summer.”

So is it just a coincidence that this van has pulled up just as psychedelics are gaining acceptance in Canada? In January, more Canadians were granted psilocybin (found in shrooms and magic truffles) for end-of-life care. Canadian investors are also pouring millions of dollars into Jamaica to research magic mushrooms. Seems like Canada is really opening its arms to embrace shrooms. And it’s about time!

Brighter Days Ahead

The trucks’ groovy designs are proof of our desire to stay warm and positive. Yes, even in the midst of a deadly pandemic. Sure, you may not be free to hug your loved ones yet, but a cheerful smile via Zoom can go a looong way for an old friend. Plus, you can stay centred in lockdown if you know which treasures to stock up on… Like magic mushrooms and truffles! 

Not only can shrooms and magic truffles open that third eye, they’re fun, easy-to-use, and crazy affordable, too. Trust me, there’s *nothing* like watching your spores grow, while sipping a warm cup of magic mushroom milk. Now that’s groovy!