Over in this particular pocket of the internet, we’re big old fans of our trusty transport network. But there’s no denying that it could use a splash of artwork to brighten it up a bit. And so it’s pretty darn convenient that a series of newly-commissioned (and utterly gorgeous) posters are set to be displayed across the London Underground over the coming year.
Created by award-winning London-based artist, Eliza Southwoodthe four seasonal posters have been commissioned as part of the London Transport Museum’s ‘Transported by Culture’ initiative. Keen to encourage locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the capital’s impressive cultural offering; each poster features a beautifully vibrant illustration of one of London’s legendary cultural venues.
The new poster series is in keeping with the tradition of displaying contemporary artwork across the transport network; a long-lived legacy credited to Frank Pick (London transport’s very first Chief Executive). From 1908, Pick revolutionised the use of poster design on the London Undergroundcommissioning leading artists to create posters to promote the various venues, theatres, museums and attractions scattered across the city.
The first poster to go on display will feature an image of Dulwich Picture Gallery in Southwood’s distinctively colourful style. Posters featuring stunning, retro-style designs of the London Transport Museum, the Royal Albert Hall, and London Zoo will then follow seasonally.
The eye-catching posters will also join the London Transport Museum’s hefty collection of posters and artworks – one of the world’s largest collections of 20th century graphic art and designin fact. They’ll also be for sale online and at the museum. Visitors will be able to feast their eyes on a striking selection of renowned poster art in the museum’s major exhibition, How to Make a Poster.
Elizabeth McKayDirector and CEO at the London Transport Museumsaid: ‘We’re excited to continue Frank Pick’s brilliant design legacy and get posters by contemporary artists back into Underground stations. Pick’s pioneering approach made great art accessible to everyone and helped to shape London’s transport network into a much-envied global icon, as it remains to this day. These new posters are part of our bold new vision to celebrate the capital’s creativity through art, theatre and music programming for our visitors. We’re thrilled that Eliza Southwood’s vibrant designs capture the energy of some of London’s most beloved cultural sites – all easily reached by the Tube.’
Eliza Southwoodposter artist, said: ‘It has been a huge honour to work with TfL and London Transport Museum on this commission. I have lived in London for most of my life and to be given the opportunity to make artwork based on the four amazing locations chosen for the project is fantastic.’
The first of the newly-commissioned poster series will go on display across the London Underground from April 4, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
