Wright – THE BEAUTY OF TRANSPORT – AN ART GALLERY IN YOUR POCKET 2015

Description

The blog revisits the topic of transport timetables, praising attractive design as a way to encourage public transport use. The author spotlights Southampton-based Tandem Design, responsible for eye-catching South West Trains timetable covers that feature detailed illustrations—such as Salisbury Cathedral and a paddle steamer—that make destinations appealing. Tandem’s broader portfolio includes poster-style transport illustrations evoking early-to-mid twentieth-century railway art and attractive timetables created for Isle of Wight bus operator Southern Vectis. The post notes the author’s satisfaction in identifying and publicizing the designers behind great transport work, thanks Tandem and the commissioning operators for their attention to detail, and argues that timetable covers can do more than list destinations: they can inspire travel. The author criticizes many transport operators for settling for bland, utilitarian covers, suggesting passengers deserve more attractive, compelling information design.