We know our design styles are influential to the design language of Chicago and what people associate it—transit systems like ours often become an important part of a city’s cultural zeitgeist. To honor our classic, modernist, “Swiss” or “International” style, rooted in a movement toward approachable, accessible, minimalist design aesthetics. These styles were adopted broadly through the late 60s through mid-80s by lots of designers who wanted to present a clean, approachable style and took hold in everything from the fashion and art world to government agencies. This new line of artworks from CTA honor and embrace our design roots and styles and make use of color, negative space and typography for a look that comes to mind for many when they think “Chicago”.

This introductory set of artworks focused on map design and styles (but there’s more to come)!