Rajesh Krishnan
Imagine coming out of a 20-hour flight worn out, drowsy, and desiring anything but the usual monotonous encounters at airports. Nonetheless, as you enter the terminal building, something distinctively colourful catches your attention. In place of lifelessness, as expected, a vibrant mural depicting a verdant valley unfolds before you or a captivating sculpture that seems to project itself from the wall. Suddenly, the weariness vanishes, making room for a glimmer of awe, and that’s the enchantment of airport and metro art.
Those public artworks that embellish transportation terminal walls are more than mere decorations. They become silent healers, allowing tired travellers to break away from travel and screen boredom. Just one captivating mural or thought-provoking installation can transport you in seconds. Perhaps it might also give you a taste of local culture, display famous landmarks, or just offer a moment of peace amid chaos.
Take the Delhi Metro, for example. The Palam Metro Station gives a breathtaking view of the sky, creating picturesque surroundings that resemble a scene from a travel brochure. At Lajpat Nagar station, you may sense the colourful power of Delhi, as it brings together the diverse elements of the city. Hauz Khas station, then again, is sort of a love letter to Delhi, showcasing its wealthy history and architectural wonders through fascinating artwork. These creative displays at the metro stations uplift the spirits of commuters and also provide a glimpse into the soul of the city, igniting their curiosity to explore further.
Airport and metro art have a remarkable influence that goes beyond just being visually appealing. A skillfully designed mural has the potential to highlight a city’s hidden treasures, those enchanting places that are often missed by tourists. Picture a mesmerising portrayal of the tranquil beaches of Goa or the grandeur of the Kashmir mountains embellishing the walls of a metro station. Such artistic creations can ignite a sense of wonder in travellers, inspiring them to include these lesser-known destinations in their travel plans.
The wave of creativity doesn’t halt in Delhi; it extends its reach to various other cities too. Look at the Chennai Airport, where they have embarked on a project to adorn the 72 pillars outside its terminals with breathtaking murals. These artworks will showcase the city’s vibrant cultural legacy and architectural marvels and captivate travellers as they arrive in Chennai.
The true value of murals in airports or metros extends far beyond their aesthetic appeal. These artistic masterworks provide a completely unique possibility for local artists to express themselves and share their creativity with a broad audience. By transforming these bustling areas into vibrant galleries, these murals enhance the visual experience for travellers and create a sense of belonging and community pride. They breathe life into otherwise sterile transportation hubs, making them even more inviting and engaging areas for everyone.
So, the next time you find yourself weaving through the crowds at an airport or metro station, pause for a moment and absolutely admire the art that surrounds you. Who knows, you might come across a hidden treasure, stumble upon a masterpiece, or sincerely find solace amid the tour frenzy.
