Work Transit Hubs. Art as a Tool for a Cultural Welfare in Metro Stations

This paper explores the transformative power of European metropolitan art stations, presenting them as hubs of well-being within the contemporary urban scenario. These transit hubs, characterized by high foot traffic, offer unique opportunities to integrate art into daily life. Such interventions enrich the aesthetic and sensory experience of the users involved and contribute significantly to their well-being and mental health. This analysis is part of the broader context of cultural welfare, which integrates social and cultural well-being, recognizing the importance of access to culture and the arts as fundamental to the quality of life of individuals and communities. Through design that increasingly integrates artistic practices, uncommon art places are generated, where everyday journeys are converted into experiences of introspection and cultural connection. It is, therefore, necessary to re-imagine urban transit spaces as vital components of the cultural and health ecosystem. Through the transformative power of art, metro stations can evolve into sanctuaries of serenity and reflection, contributing to the overall well-being of city inhabitants and redefining the role of public spaces in contemporary urban life.