Transport by design
As London's transport system grew in complexity, Londoners wanted better coordination of services. But the competing interests of the many private and public transport operators posed a challenge.
London Transport was created in 1933 to bring all the services under one public authority, and it was Frank Pick, London Transport's new Chief Executive, who had the energy and vision to devise a creative solution.
Pick's mantra was 'fitness for purpose' and he believed that good design was essential to London Transport's identity as an efficient company. The Museum's design gallery shows how this unique design culture was developed across the company's entire range, from vehicles and architecture to information signs and publicity.
In keeping with this modern approach, London Underground became a leading patron of modern art, commissioning posters from both established artists and talented newcomers. London Transport Museum holds a unique archive of more than 5000 posters and works of art covering a century of graphic design. A changing selection is on display in the Museum and you can browse the