To the Horizon
Spray paint on British train tickets, hand finished with acrylic ink.
This is one of Johnman's renowned train ticket artworks depicting a couple walking hand in hand down a railway track. The piece is entitled "To the Horizon" and symbolises life's journeys together.
The British Railway Ticket - A classic piece of iconic design soon to be confined to the history books in the digital age. Being non-recyclable (due to the metallic data strips within) I was keen to do something with the collection I'd acquired and was inspired by the rise of early New York Graffiti painted on the side of subway carriages. Hence, I've used Banksy-esque to adorn them with my designs but with a romantic as opposed to political message.
One of the things I love about painting on railway tickets is the dual aspect it gives the work. One can admire my artwork and its symbolism but with the use of opaque paints, the details printed on each ticket can still be seen. This leaves you wondering about the untold story of the immortalised journey printed upon each one.
Many of the tickets I have amassed are adorned with the conductors "squiggle" in biro or a circular, punched hole to confirm the ticket has been checked. On occasion, conductors will change their company-issue punch for a quirky one of their own. This particular piece contains one which has been punched in the shape of a Scottish Terrior making it completely unique.
Titled and signed en-verso along with the edition number and media used.
From a limited edition of 5 pieces, each slightly different due to the tickets used and loose, freestyle application of the acrylic ink.
Framed and ready to hang.