About the Artist
Created by an anonymous artist, this 1978 design reflects the visual culture of late 20th century Barcelona, when transit tickets were essential elements of daily urban life. During this period, public transportation played a vital role in connecting the city's neighborhoods, and the tickets themselves became small artifacts of routine and movement. Their design balanced practicality with a distinct graphic identity, turning each ride into a subtle encounter with local design sensibility.
These tickets now serve as collectible reminders of Barcelona's evolving cityscape, offering a glimpse into the everyday experiences of residents during a time of social and political transformation. The print appeals to those interested in urban history and the tangible traces of city life, especially within the context of Barcelona's rich graphic tradition.
The Artwork
This artwork, Billetes Bus Barcelona 2, presents a curated selection of vintage transit tickets, capturing the pulse of the city in 1978. That year marked a period of renewal for Barcelona, as Spain transitioned to democracy and public spaces became more dynamic. The tickets, once used for trams and buses, document the practical aspects of commuting, from fares to routes, while also reflecting the city's broader changes.
By assembling these tickets together, the piece preserves a fragment of collective memory—an archive of journeys, routines, and the graphic language of public transport. It resonates with those who appreciate Barcelona poster classics and the everyday objects that shape urban identity.
Style & Characteristics
The composition features a grid of rectangular tickets, each with its own distinct layout of numbers, typefaces, and fare information. The artwork is characterized by bold color accents—red, yellow, blue, and green—set against a pale background, creating a lively and energetic visual effect. The crisp edges and clear printing emphasize the functional clarity of the original tickets, while the arrangement introduces a rhythmic, almost musical pattern across the surface.
This typographic approach highlights the interplay between information and design, making the piece both a historical document and a vibrant example of graphic ephemera. It naturally complements collections of vintage advertising design and urban memorabilia.
In Interior Design
This vintage Barcelona transport poster brings a touch of urban nostalgia to entryways, offices, or kitchens, where its geometric forms and bright colors can enliven the space. It pairs well with modern, mid-century, or industrial interiors, especially those featuring white walls or light wood, allowing the ticket designs to stand out.
For a gallery wall, it can be combined with architectural photography or map prints to create a travel-inspired display. The artwork appeals to design enthusiasts, transit fans, and anyone drawn to the everyday stories embedded in city life.
