An artwork by Banksy, which first appeared on the door of a Transport for London (TfL) signal controller cabinet in Croydon in October 2019, has been acquired by London Transport Museum for preservation and is now on display.
The artwork depicts a rat hanging from the arm of a clock and appeared in front of the artist’s pop-up showroom installation, Gross Domestic Product. It was featured in a video posted by Banksy on Instagram in October 2019.
The door of the signal controller cabinet, which still housed the technology for nearby traffic lights and tram signals, was carefully removed by Transport for London to prevent theft or damage of the artwork and to ensure the continued safe operation of the transport network.
To recreate the original context of the artwork, it has been mounted onto an identical cabinet body and has been accessioned into London Transport Museum’s collection for preservation and display.
London Transport Museum preserves and cares for London’s iconic transport history and heritage, sharing stories of the capital’s past, present and future. Its exhibits reveal how life in London has been shaped by transport, from engineering innovations that have brought about huge social change to the people who have kept the city moving. Included in the Museum’s collections and displays is the story of how artists, graphic designers, sculptors, architects, and perhaps the world’s most famous draughtsman Harry Beck have influenced London’s identity.
Elizabeth McKay, Director and CEO of London Transport Museum said: ‘Banksy’s work always sparks a reaction – whether it’s funny, political, or makes you think and people really connect with it. Banksy’s art is part of the city’s story, loved by Londoners and visitors alike. Whilst this artwork could not remain in its original location, it’s fantastic to display it here in the Museum for visitors to enjoy it up close.’
London Transport Museum cares for more than 2,500 original artworks and 34,000 transport posters created by artists and designers who have influenced how people see London. This is the Museum’s first acquisition of a contemporary street artwork by a globally recognised artist like Banksy.
A recipient of Arts Council England funding, part of the Museum’s role is to document the contemporary story of London and its transport today, preserving history as it is being made for future generations. Other recent contemporary acquisitions include a London Pride figurehead gown and accessories, South Asian Heritage Month posters highlighting TfL’s workforce, TfL Covid-19 signage, and new moquette designs for the New Tube for London, Central line, Victoria line and New Routemaster.
Adding a Banksy to the London Transport Museum’s displays is just one of the many ways the Museum is using creativity to tell the story of London’s transport.
Visitors can enjoy live classical and jazz performances by emerging London musicians set against the stunning backdrop of historic vehicles and catch original theatre productions in the Cubic Theatre, including Transport Explorers: A Live Show, an energetic, interactive experience for families. Beyond the Museum, the public can spot a striking new series of TfL travel posters by award-winning artist Eliza Southwood, celebrating four of London’s top cultural attractions – on display across the Underground network this year.
Adult tickets to visit London Transport Museum in Covent Garden include free return day-time entry for a whole year, and kids go free! To book visit: ltmuseum.co.uk
