By: williamsburroughs
In cooperation with Oslo Kommune, Sporveien started mapping the already existing art on the Norwegian metro and metro stations in 2013, to get an overview of the variety of art displayed. They believe art makes the travel more pleasant and by decorating the metros and the stations, the travelers mood will be lifted.
When the metro stations were built in the 60s to 80s there was a strong wish from both the Oslo Kommune and the Sporveien’s management to make the trips more pleasant. Through this cooperation the metro stations became more decorative.
The mapping of the art, with the help of the city’s population, is important for the history of the art and artist. Sporveien has strong believes that the displaying of art is important for lifting the experience of the travelers and make it more pleasant.
(Sporveien)
Within the sociological approach I will consider this kind of art and display as unrecognized avant-garde art. Most of the artists remain anonymous, and since the art is on public display its most likely uneconomically rewarded. In some areas, like Tøyen T-banestasjon, it is possible to rent an area of display for a specific time. The article does not say anything about cost or payment, so this might be a free of change service where you can apply and hope to get picked.
This is a good opportunity to show your art to the community. Not just for recognition, but to contribute to the society with your creations. This makes the city light up and helps the metro and metro stations to not be bland. Within the inclusive circuit of the sociological approach this emphasises egalitarian artistic goals. To bring people together or lighten their mood on their way to a destination.
This doesn’t do much for the commercial market but has an influence on the people walking by. This contributes to the culture we have in Norway and wellness of both the Norwegian citizens and tourists.
(Sporveien)
In my opinion I think this is a great start to something beautiful. When I travel to work or school by metro, I notice the little things and the little extra effort Oslo Kommune and Sporveien has put it to making the ride more pleasant. Whether it’s a massive piece of art or just a slight colour change on the wall. This helps with my personal mood and I’m sure many others feel the same way. It’s great to see that the government supports the arts. Without subsidization, society with be worse off. Art serves the public interest and therefore the government should serve art.
Article: Kunst på T-banen.
Making sense of art and design industries 