In this new work the artist continues her continuing exploration into maps, codes and words.

 

Rather than a translation of Harry Beck’s iconic map, the artist has created a schema that relates to her perceived dynamism of a major metropolis.

 

This map can be read as a system theory diagram of a city’s interrelated elements or, conversely, a complex treasure map enticing the viewer into a labyrinth of associations and reciprocation.

 

The original font, symbols and colour code are maintained in this context to act as recognizable motifs. Every working station within London’s zones has been listed and used to contain the connections that are so familiar to London travellers. To everybody that has ever used the network, these names evoke memories, experiences or possibilities,

 

Stations are placed around the circumference in alphabetical order creating an egalitarian perspective of London. Hillingdon sits next to Holborn, Redbridge beside Regent’s Park. Zones, boroughs and demographic profiles disappear. The city viewed as a whole.

 

Just as Harry Beck first intended, although taken to the extreme, the lines have been straightened and distances between the stations have been evened out. This transforms a map based on electrical circuit diagrams into an image seemingly gleaned from a Particle Collider. Traceable filaments that intersect, overlap, or gravitate in random areas within the containing circle, creating fusions of colour and mass.

 

“He had been told life was beautiful. No! Life is round” Joe Bousquet – “Le meneur de lune”