Title: Global Underground Map
Artist: Yinka Shonibare
Published by: Transport for London
Year: 2006
Size: 634mm x 1015mm (25 x 40 inches)
In June 2006 Platform for Art (renamed Art on the Underground) commissioned acclaimed artist Yinka Shonibare MBE to design the latest cover of the London Underground Tube map. Yinka Shonibare produced a map of the world which was drawn using the colours of the Tube map to reflect the diversity of London and the users of London Underground.
Art on the Underground is London Underground's ground-breaking arts programme, recognised around the world as one of the best examples of public realm contemporary art. High quality art and design are the essence of London Underground's (LU) globally recognised brand, and have been in place since Frank Pick established the concept of 'Total Design' for the network to be its unifying principle. Art on the Underground is built on this crucial legacy. It is central to London Underground's identity and dedicated to building on LU's renowned artistic heritage. It has been hugely successful in positioning LU at the heart of London's cultural life, and has been universally acclaimed, having recently won the international Cultural Action award for art on public transport.