A fascinating new exhibition has opened, dedicated to the evolution of Transport for London’s iconic tube map, showcasing its history over the past 160 years.
Exhibition Details
Curated by The Map House in Knightsbridge, the exhibition features posters, unfinished sketches, and an extensive collection of maps dating from 1863 to 2023. Titled ‘Mapping the Tube: 1863-2023,’ it will open to the public next month.
Highlighting Harry Beck’s Legacy
One of the exhibition’s key attractions is the largest display of Harry Beck’s original drafts and designs for the tube map he created in 1931. This year marks the 50th anniversary of his death. Despite the map’s enduring popularity—recognized as the second-best British design of the 20th century by the BBC—Beck received just £5 and five shillings for his work.
From Diagrams to Design
Originally tasked with creating circuit diagrams for the tube network, Beck’s fascination with the system led him to develop the map in its current form. The exhibition explores the complex design choices he made, featuring everything from annotated drafts to the original first edition of his 1933 pocket map.
Memorabilia for Sale
Visitors can also purchase pieces of memorabilia, including earlier versions of the network map from 1880 and Macdonald Gill’s whimsical Wonderground Map from 1914, with prices ranging from £40 to £55,000.
Conclusion
The free exhibition will be open to the public from October 25 to November 30, 2024, during regular hours: Monday to Friday from 10:30 am to 6 pm and Saturday from 10:30 am to 5 pm, offering a unique insight into the history and design of London’s tube map.
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