Believe it or not, the New York City subway system houses one of the world’s largest collections of public art. According to MTA Arts & Design, there are more than 370 different art installations spread throughout the subterranean transit system. Among the artists with works on display underground are household names that have been exhibited in the most illustrious museums across the globe. Here, we highlight 5 famous artists and architects you might be surprised to learn have art on display along the tracks beneath your feet!
See some of these works in person on our upcoming Underground Subway Art Tour led by Untapped New York’s Chief Experience Officer Justin Rivers and Artist-in-residence Aaron Asis!
Underground Art in the Subway Tour
1. Yoko Ono
For her subway mosaic at the 72 St. (B/C) station, Yoko Ono brought a bit of the sky underground. Aptly titled, “SKY,” this 2018 artwork depicts bright white clouds set against a vibrant blue background. Scattered throughout the serene scene are messages of hope. Words like “dream,” “remember,” “imagine,” and “peace,” float among the clouds. The location of this installation is nearby by Ono’s home at The Dakota, a place she shared with the late John Lennon. She created this installation in his memory.
