Beyond the Surface

Mapping public knowledge of Londons surface

Part of Designology at the London Transport Museum, this public mapping workshop was part of Beyond the Surface - an evening of interactive debates, talks and workshops about the future of surface transport in the capital.

As Tim Ingold has said, “the world itself has no surface.” It is experienced by “its mani-fold inhabitants, journeying along their respective ways of life.” How might the graphic language of the map function to produce of knowledge about experiential and subjective experiences of London?

Participants used a base map to discuss and visualise their collective knowledge of London’s surface. The different layers of tracing paper formed a large and chaotic map. Among the many favourite landmarks and streets that make up London’s ‘official’ surface were some of the more curious, personal and subjective sights of London. The Brexit Barrier, one of the best boy bands of all time, wealth, a dog on wheels and numerous signposts to London's elusive and ever-diminishing affordable housing. Here they are conceptualised as street signs…