MTA Arts & Design commissions dynamic contemporary art for subway and commuter rail stations, creating memorable and lively environments for travelers.

Arts & Design builds upon the design mandate dating back to when the New York City subway was first constructed. On opening day in 1904, the founders declared the system a "great public work," for both the access and efficiency it would provide New Yorkers, and for the emphasis on creating an inviting space through beautiful ornamentation, craft, and good design. This emphasis is carried forward in Arts & Design's visual and performing arts programs, and design initiatives that contribute to the cultural vitality of the transit system, a place where millions come together each day.

In conjunction with a massive rehabilitation program launched in the 1980s, MTA Arts & Design was created in 1985 to oversee the selection of artists and installation of permanent artworks in subway and commuter rail stations. Arts & Design creates meaningful connections between stations, neighborhoods, and our diverse ridership through a broad spectrum of artistic activity, including permanent art, posters, photography installations, digital art, live musical performances, the Poetry in Motion program, and special events. Arts & Design also consults on architectural features within stations and subway cars, and other industrial design elements. Our permanent art program is one of the largest and most diverse collections of site-specific public art in the world, with more than 330 works by world famous, mid-career, and emerging artists. 

As you travel through the MTA network, you will experience a first-rate art museum comprising works created in mosaic, terra cotta, metal, glass, and mixed-media. You may hear music, read poetry, or enjoy illustrated posters in stations or rail cars. We invite you to discover and enjoy New York’s diverse and beautiful underground art museum.

Artwork credit: "Perasma I & II; Dappleganger" (2018) © Stephen Westfall. Located at 30 Av. Commissioned by MTA Arts & Design. Photo: James and Karla Murray.