Explore London’s Underground Railway

london undergroundsWhen you visit London, a place with more than 8.982 million people and an approximate size of 607 square miles, it doesn’t take much to feel a little lost. Even New York is smaller at 468 square miles and Los Angeles at 503 square miles. Perhaps it is this reason that the London Underground was invented. It does make transportation a little less confusing.

The History of the Underground

the tubeThe Underground is a public, rapid, transit system that serves London and some of the nearby counties. The first part of it opened in January 1863. In 1890, more was added.
Today, the “Tube” has expanded to 11 different lines and the ability to more than 5-million passengers daily. In the beginning, tubes were laid just below the ground and covered by soil. Today, the deepest station is the Hampstead Station, which is on the northern line. It runs down to 58.5 metres beneath the ground. This is approximately 192-feet.

Cool Facts About London’s Tube

oyster cardWith such an extensive history, the Tube is a place of many interesting facts. For instance, the average speed of transit in the Underground is approximately 20.5 mph. This includes the stops, so the actual travel speed is much higher. If you are on the Metropolitan line, the trains there reach beyond 60 mph.
In the Underground, there is a very short tube journey. You can ride the Piccadilly Line between Leicester Square and Covent Gardens in only 20-seconds. However, this is one of the most impressive parts of the ride for tourists, even though it costs nearly 5 euros to do it.
Would you believe that it is home to one of the longest escalators? Its true. There is an escalator that measures 197-ft!
From areas that were once popular for people wanting to commit suicide to babies being born, the Underground has seen it all. Even Jerry Springer was born at East Finchley as his mother sought out shelter from an air raid during WWII.

Are You Ready to Board the Tube?

No one can deny that the Tube is one of the easiest ways to get around London. It is easy to do and for many, one of the best things to do as a tourist in London. There are money cards that you can use to make it simple to ride where you want to go. If you prefer a more detailed look at the Underground, there are walking tours you can take. Overall, we say that if you plan to visit London, this is one thing you definitely don’t want to miss. Pencil it in while traveling to Big Ben or the London Eye and you will have the best of both worlds. Are you ready to tour this “Underworld” that holds many large secrets?

Sculptures & Hanging Works On Display In The Tube

Sculptures and wall art in subway systems serve as vibrant expressions of culture and creativity, transforming utilitarian spaces into engaging environments for commuters. Many cities incorporate artistic elements into their transit systems, showcasing local artists and reflecting the unique identity of the community. These artworks can range from large-scale sculptures that greet passengers as they enter stations to intricate mosaics and murals that tell stories of the city’s history and heritage. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the subway, but they also create a sense of place, making the experience of traveling through these spaces more enjoyable.

Art Installations

Additionally, art installations often contribute to the revitalization of neighborhoods, attracting visitors and fostering a greater appreciation for public art. By integrating sculptures and wall art into subway systems, cities not only beautify transit spaces but also enrich the daily lives of commuters, making each journey a little more inspiring.

An art installation is a three-dimensional artwork designed to transform a specific space, often incorporating various materials and media to create an immersive experience for viewers. Unlike traditional art forms, such as paintings or sculptures, installations can be site-specific, meaning they are created to engage with the environment in which they are placed. This can include utilizing the architecture of a building, the landscape of an outdoor space, or even the characteristics of a public area.

Art installations can be temporary or permanent and may involve a combination of elements such as sound, light, video, and interactive components, inviting viewers to engage with the work in a more dynamic way. The intent of an installation is often to provoke thought, evoke emotion, or challenge perceptions, making it a powerful medium for artists to communicate their ideas and concepts. Overall, art installations offer a unique and often immersive way for audiences to experience and interact with art.

Modern Day Art Via CNC Machines

Art created by CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines represents a fascinating intersection of technology and creativity. These machines use computer programs to control tools that cut, carve, and shape materials like wood, metal, plastic, and stone with high precision. Artists can design intricate patterns, sculptures, and functional pieces that would be challenging to create by hand. Some starter pieces include cut out wooden names which as simple single layer designs. These can be used to call out different locations within the subway network.

One of the primary advantages of CNC technology is its ability to reproduce designs consistently, allowing artists to create multiple iterations of a piece or develop complex designs that maintain accuracy. This capability opens up new possibilities for artistic expression, enabling intricate designs, precise geometries, and detailed textures.

CNC art spans various disciplines, from furniture design and architecture to fine art and installation pieces. Some artists combine traditional craftsmanship with CNC techniques, integrating hand-finished elements to add a personal touch. As the technology evolves, it continues to inspire innovative approaches, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in art and design while inviting discussions about the role of technology in creative processes.

The Art Scene Above The Tunnels

The London art scene is a dynamic and multifaceted tapestry that mirrors the city’s rich cultural heritage and its status as a global art capital. At its heart are world-renowned institutions like the British Museum, with its unparalleled collection of historical artifacts, and the National Gallery, which boasts masterpieces from Van Gogh to Rembrandt. The Tate Modern, housed in a repurposed power station, is a beacon for contemporary art enthusiasts, while Tate Britain offers a deep dive into British art history. Meanwhile, the Victoria and Albert Museum stands out for its extensive focus on decorative arts and design.

Beyond these grand institutions

Van GoughLondon’s contemporary art scene thrives in spaces like the Saatchi Gallery and White Cube, which champion modern artists and innovative exhibitions. The Serpentine Galleries, set in Kensington Gardens, are celebrated for their cutting-edge projects, including the annual Serpentine Pavilion commission. Art districts such as Shoreditch are vibrant with street art, while areas like Soho and Mayfair offer a blend of commercial galleries and independent spaces.

Art Fairs & Studios

Art fairs like Frieze London and the Affordable Art Fair further illustrate the city’s commitment to both emerging talent and established names, making contemporary art accessible to a broad audience. Public art is also a significant part of the scene, with installations like those on the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square adding a contemporary twist to historical settings. Educational institutions like the Royal College of Art and Central Saint Martins nurture the next generation of artists, while festivals such as the London Design Festival highlight the intersection of art and design.

Sunrays Art Studios

Sunray Art Studio is an artistic space that offers a unique blend of creative exploration and artistic expression. Located in a vibrant community, Sunrays Studios serves as a hub for artists of various disciplines, providing a nurturing environment for both established and emerging talents.

At Sunray Art Studio, the focus is on fostering creativity through a range of activities and programs. The studio often features workshops and classes designed to help individuals of all skill levels explore different artistic mediums, from painting and drawing to sculpture and mixed media. These sessions are typically led by experienced artists and educators who bring their expertise to guide participants through their creative processes.

The studio also hosts exhibitions and showcases, giving artists an opportunity to present their work to the public. These events are often curated to highlight diverse artistic practices and provide a platform for local and emerging artists to gain visibility. The exhibitions at Sunray Art Studio are known for their eclectic and thought-provoking presentations, reflecting the studio’s commitment to supporting innovative and varied forms of artistic expression.

In addition to its educational and exhibition activities, Sunray Art Studio might offer studio rental space for artists seeking a dedicated area to work on their projects. This can be particularly valuable for those who need a flexible and inspiring environment to develop their craft.

Overall, Sunray Art Studio embodies a community-centric approach to art, emphasizing collaboration, creativity, and the celebration of artistic diversity. Whether through its workshops, exhibitions, or studio spaces, it plays a significant role in enriching the local art scene and supporting the growth of artists.

The city’s art scene extends into the digital realm, exploring the fusion of art and technology, and is bolstered by vibrant artistic communities and residencies that support emerging talents. In every corner of London, from its historic galleries to its cutting-edge exhibitions and public art installations, the art scene reflects a city that is both steeped in tradition and eagerly embracing the future.

Underground Artwork Of The Anorak

underground trainEveryone knows that going for a ride on a subway or an underground train can be an adventure, especially for the people who do not get to do it daily. For instance, people who may be visiting New York or London or any other big city, may find a million details of the “underground” that they will enjoy and remember. The most fascinating parts of it is the underground artwork of the Anorak.

The Beauty of Underground

abstract art undergroundWhen talking about miles and miles of subway or underground train tracks, most people envision darkness with random lights. It is true. There are sometimes areas of track that are a little dark. This is often the parts we see in movies if there is a subway scene.

However, there is a whole other side of the underground. It is bright, it is bold, and it is beautiful. They are the murals you may see. They are the unique lighting options that may hang from ceilings. Domed ceilings in stations, and more.

All of these sights can fill your mind with wonder to the point that you may question why you ever believed the underground could be a place of darkness. This is the appeal for people who visit these places. It is the part that makes them happy to be in the underground. For seasoned riders, those that use the subways and trains every day, there is also a bonus. They may find it appealing, but they may also find it comforting.

The Unique Artwork You Will Find

subway statuesNo one knows exactly what you may find in the underground. In New York, there are abstract paintings, comical murals, and paintings that reflect the sea floor, Some artwork may resemble stained glass, which becomes a shining light amid darkness. There are mosaics and statues to glimpse upon. In our opinion, there may even be resin coaster heat resistant decor scattered randomly throughout the subway system, especially in the stations where you will often find seating areas.

The London underground is also a great place to see some outrageous things. You can see architectural features that allow sunlight to filter down into the world beneath the ground, massive wooden beams, and much more. We personally feel that you could ride the rails every day and still never see all the beauty that is there.

What’s Next for the Underground?

In places like New York, graffiti is abundant. Often, there are people who break the law to go below the ground and add their own personal touches. This is generally frowned upon and prevented if possible. There are professionals who go below to show off their skills and they do this quite often. This means that if you visit this year and return in a year or two, you will likely see an entirely different world.

We cannot prove it, but we feel that other mass transit systems that operate underground likely have the same type of projects going on constantly. Simply think about the beautiful ceilings and uniquely colored lights you will see in Paris Metro.