When you think of great works of modern art, you probably think of them as hiding away at sites such as New York Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), London’s Tate Modern and Japan’s Benesse Art Site Naoshima. You probably don’t think of Sydney’s Central Station.

But for some years now, art experts, placemakers and community stakeholders all around the world have been recognizing the value of art in train and subway stations.

Why? On a practical side, organisations such as VicHealth in a 2006 report, have pointed out that art in train stations can ‘reduce vandalism’, ‘increase civil pride and engagement’, ‘create community environments which are safe’ and ‘humanise unattractive or soulless station environments’.

Additionally, having a station as an art landmark can encourage businesses in the immediate area through creating a safer space with more social cohesion, therefore increasing dwell time and lease prices for commercial properties (such as Retailers and Food and Beverage operators) in and around the station.