Concept

This little comic is a work in progress, inspired by my studies of the New York City subway as an urban commons. Following research into actions of communing, and what it means to formally participate in a modern day urban commons, I am designing a comic that incites people to view the transitory space as one for appropriation, negotiation and - in light of current fare evasion and strict policing issues - peaceful protest.

Design Influence

While many “subway etiquette” guides exist, many of which are sponsored or backed by the MTA. This one, however, is sometimes meant to encourage behavior that the private management of the subway may not happy about, in favor of supporting the community of riders to help each other out.

The design aesthetic is inspired by the 1950s illustrated ads on what was then called “The Subway Sun”. I superimposed these styles of illustrations old black and white photographs of the subway, some dating dating back to the 1930s.

TOOLS

Procreate
Illustrator
Photoshop