What started as a pilot project at Newark Penn Station in 2019 has blossomed into a statewide initiative, turning transit hubs into lively art spaces where commuters can pause, reflect, and connect with history and culture during their everyday travels.
- Art installations brighten eight New Jersey transit stations
- Exhibitions celebrate railroads’ role in American history
- Project supports local artists with stipends and exposure
What happened
Since launching in 2019 with a pilot at Newark Penn Station, New Jersey Transit’s TRANSITional Art Project has grown to feature temporary art exhibitions in eight different commuter stations around the state. These displays include murals, photography, and multi-panel installations by New Jersey-based artists, curated to engage with the historic and cultural significance of railroads.
The newest exhibition, called “Tracks Through Time: Movement, History and Human Connection,” is now on view at Morris Plains Rail Station. It reflects on 250 years of American history through the perspective of railroads, celebrating their impact on industry, infrastructure, and daily life for commuters today. Artists such as Beyti Barbaros, Jonathan Yumi, and Catherine Thurston contribute to this visually striking and thought-provoking display.
Why it feels good
Train stations are typically places of transit where people are focused on their journey ahead, often distracted by phones or schedules. This art project creates a chance for unexpected moments of delight and reflection, encouraging commuters to pause and appreciate their surroundings in a new way. Public art in everyday spaces transforms routine travel into an opportunity for connection and inspiration.
Furthermore, this program offers financial support to participating artists, which is often rare in public art initiatives. By funding creative projects in transit environments, the initiative nurtures local talent and strengthens community ties. It elevates the experience for both artists and daily travelers, making public spaces more welcoming and culturally rich.
What to enjoy or watch next
Travelers passing through the eight stations hosting the TRANSITional Art Project — including Newark, Camden, Atlantic City, Trenton, New Brunswick, Summit, Rahway, and Morris Plains — can look forward to fresh and evolving exhibits. Each installation presents unique stories and artistic perspectives tied to the history and human experience of rail travel.
Keep an eye out for future expansions and new artists joining the program, as the project continues to make art accessible in unconventional public spaces. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, these galleries on the go offer a chance to experience creativity and community in unexpected moments.