A more colourful commute: Dubai transport system set to be transformed by street art
Dubai Metro will be transformed into an open-air art exhibition as part of a project to beautify the transport system.
Internationally respected artists are lined up to take part in the Dubai Metro Murals initiative, which will brighten the normally dull, grey pillars supporting the overground lines.
Daniel Cortez, a Peruvian, and Elio Mercado, who was born in the Dominican Republic but now lives in Miami, will paint the pillars between the DIFC and Emirates Towers stations, with work on the project starting this week.
The project, run by Brand Dubai, is part of a wider partnership with transport chiefs to beautify Dubai’s road and transport systems by creating an open-air art museum. Artwork will appear on the city’s tunnels, bridges, bus stops, walking tracks and more during the next three years.
“The project will not only transform the urban ambience along Sheikh Zayed Road, but also bring art closer to the community,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the Roads and Transport Authority.
“In co-operation with Brand Dubai, we are seeking to implement a series of projects like this that will make public spaces more appealing and create a distinct visual identity that fosters a sense of belonging and pride in the community.”
Mercado was involved in the huge mural near Al Raha Mall in Abu Dhabi and is known for his large, lifelike portraits.
Cortez is known for his figurative work, but often adds colour and a surreal twist to his pieces.
Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Dubai Media Office, was responsible for giving the underside of the flyover of East Crescent on Palm Jumeirah the appearance of a green forest. Fibreglass was used to make the pillars of the bridge look like tree trunks, with fake foliage sprouting across the underside of the bridge.
Mona Al Marri, director general of Dubai Media Office, said: “The project aims to create beautiful artwork that makes public spaces in Dubai more exciting and infuses them with a sense of creative dynamism.”
The murals being created are planned to enhance the way that residents and visitors relate to the city.
“By revitalising the urban atmosphere, projects like these will help to sustain stronger and more close-knit communities,” Ms Al Marri said.
Under an agreement between Brand Dubai and the RTA, the organisations will establish a new partnership to improve Dubai’s appearance.
Artists from the UAE, the region and across the world will be invited to create public artworks in the city in future.