Poster; Explore London, by Catherine Denvir, 1986

The Art on the Underground campaign was started by London Underground (L.U.) in 1986. London Transport had traditionally commissioned talented artists and graphic designers to work on its posters. However, with fewer funds available during the 1960s and 1970s, the number of commissioned works declined. In the 1980s, when passenger numbers and revenues had risen, the company could afford to revive its reputation as an arts patron. This London Transport poster was released in 1986 to publicise the new Explorer pass. The image used is from an original artwork by Catherine Denvir, who studied at the Chelsea School of Art. The painting includes depictions of some of London's most famous visitor attractions, such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Cutty Sark.