NY Transit Museum: Ode to the Orange Seats

On view starting June 17: Ode to the Orange Seats is a loving tribute to an increasingly rare sight in New York’s subways: the orange and yellow bucket seats first introduced on R44 cars in 1971. A bold departure from the cooler tones that had long defined subway interiors, the sunny seats quickly became an iconic part of the city’s transit system, capturing the imaginations (and backsides) of millions of riders for more than 50 years. Featuring works by 14 artists across mediums including miniature modeling, tattoo, watercolor, flashe, acrylic, and oil painting, the exhibit explores how the everyday commute can spark nostalgia, creativity, personal connection, and spirited debate among New Yorkers.