The Stockholm Metro Art, often referred to as “the world’s longest art gallery,” is a remarkable public art experience spread across the city’s subway system. With nearly 100 of its 110 stations featuring art installations, it transforms everyday travel into a vibrant cultural journey. Here’s a closer look at this unique art space:
Overview of the Metro Art
The project began in the 1950s, with the idea of making art accessible to the public. Artists from different periods and styles have contributed to the artworks, creating a diverse and colorful collection that reflects both Stockholm’s history and contemporary trends.
Top Stations to Visit for Art
T-Centralen
- Art Style: Blue-and-white murals
- Why go? T-Centralen is one of the most iconic stations, with its signature blue leaf motifs painted on the cavernous walls and ceilings. Designed by artist Per Olof Ultvedt in 1975, the murals soften the station’s otherwise industrial architecture and symbolize calm in the busy hub.
Solna Centrum
- Art Style: Dramatic landscapes
- Why go? This station features striking red and green landscapes by artists Anders Åberg and Karl-Olov Björk. The fiery red ceiling represents the sky at sunset, while the green forests reflect Sweden’s natural environment. The murals also comment on environmental issues and rural depopulation.
Stadion
- Art Style: Rainbow arches
- Why go? Stadion station is bright and uplifting, with its famous rainbow stretching across the ceiling. The station’s design celebrates the 1912 Summer Olympics, held in Stockholm, and the colorful rainbow brings a sense of joy and optimism to the space.
Kungsträdgården
- Art Style: Historical artifacts and lush greenery
- Why go? This station is like walking through an underground garden with its archaeological themes and references to Swedish history. Sculptures and installations by Ulrik Samuelson evoke the nearby royal gardens, including colorful reproductions of plants.
Rådhuset
- Art Style: Archaeological ruins
- Why go? Rådhuset is designed to feel like a vast underground excavation. The exposed rock formations and earth tones make you feel as though you’re walking through an archaeological dig site, fitting for a station located near Stockholm’s Court House.
Tekniska Högskolan
- Art Style: Scientific motifs
- Why go? Located near the Royal Institute of Technology, this station features art inspired by mathematics, physics, and technology. Geometric shapes and scientific diagrams decorate the space, created by Lennart Mörk to reflect the intellectual hub above.
Thorildsplan
- Art Style: Pixel art
- Why go? Thorildsplan’s playful, colorful art is inspired by early video games. Pixelated clouds, hearts, and creatures evoke a sense of nostalgia for 8-bit video games and make this station a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Östermalmstorg
- Art Style: Feminist and political art
- Why go? This station features politically charged works by Siri Derkert, who was one of the first women to create art for the Stockholm metro. Her etched concrete walls depict themes of peace, women’s rights, and environmental activism.
Mörby Centrum
- Art Style: Contemporary pop art
- Why go? Artist Gunnar Söderström turned this station into a colorful, energetic space with bright murals and abstract designs. The art creates a lively atmosphere, perfect for a suburban shopping center stop.
How to Explore the Metro Art
- Guided tours: Free guided tours are available, especially during the summer months, where a knowledgeable guide will take you through the most famous stations, explaining the history and meaning behind the artwork.
- Self-guided tours: If you prefer a self-paced exploration, simply hop on the metro and explore the stations at your leisure. Make sure you have a SL access card for travel, and take your time at each station to absorb the art.
Fun Facts:
- Length of the gallery: The Stockholm Metro spans over 110 kilometers, making it the longest art exhibit in the world.
- Diverse styles: The art installations include mosaics, sculptures, paintings, carvings, and even interactive displays, showcasing a wide range of artistic expression.
- Themes: Many stations feature social commentary, with themes ranging from environmental conservation to feminism, urban development, and human rights.
The Stockholm Metro Art is a must-see for visitors and locals alike, blending everyday functionality with artistic expression in an innovative and accessible way.
