Arts for Transit and Urban Design

Union Street

Emmett Wigglesworth

CommUnion, 1994

Porcelain enamel on platform walls; tile design on track walls

In this series of 22 panels set into recessed areas above the subway station signs, symbolic figures move about and interact with one another. Although separated by spacing between panels, each is linked by their graphic quality to form a relationship with those nearby. The artist explains his concept: "As a unit they form a composite to symbolically show as in a 'union' the best of each part of racial, religious, and cultural life make the most positive picture. The community above the Union Street station is mirrored in these panels because they are successfully working at making their community into this reality." Additionally, the station has a series of track wall panels designed by the artist.