Europe boasts some of the most iconic public transit systems in the world, with cities like Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm leading the way. Stockholm, in particular, is home to a unique underground art exhibit that spans over 68 miles, making it the longest art exhibit in the world. Since 1957, artists have played a crucial role in designing the city’s subway stations, creating immersive and visually stunning experiences for commuters.
Photographer Thibault Drutel, inspired by the architecture of underground train stations, embarked on a journey through Hamburg, Berlin, Munich, and Brussels to capture the essence of these iconic locations. His series, “Symmetric Subway,” captures the symmetry and energy of these spaces, timed perfectly with passing trains to add a sense of movement to each shot.
Drutel explains, “European subways offer a rich visual diversity, mixing brutalism, futurism, minimalism, and unexpected touches of ornamentation. The symmetry found in these spaces, from the layout to the patterns and design, is what drew me in.” Through his photography, he aims to showcase the aesthetic beauty of these often-overlooked spaces, highlighting their unique characteristics and architectural details.
While subway travel may be a mundane daily activity for many, Drutel’s work elevates these spaces to an art form, focusing on perspective, movement, lighting, and style. His photographs freeze moments in time, capturing the built environment’s silent storytelling and revealing insights into human rhythm, urban choreography, and spatial awareness.
Continuing his exploration of global architecture, Drutel plans to visit three more cities this year to expand his “Symmetric Subway” series. His work can be viewed and purchased on his website, where updates on new projects and exhibitions are also available. Through his lens, Drutel transforms ordinary subway stations into extraordinary visual experiences, showcasing the beauty and complexity of these urban spaces.
