LA Metro's D Line extension unveils bold new public art installations

Two new art installations have opened at Los Angeles Metro stations along the D Line extension. The works by Soo Kim and Ken Gonzales-Day transform underground spaces into public galleries. Each piece reflects the culture and history of its surrounding neighbourhood.

At Wilshire/La Cienega Station, Soo Kim’s cityscape art fills the walls with dense, layered imagery. The exhibit shifts from dark to light, mirroring the journey from underground to street level. Kim designed the piece to feel fresh with every passing glance, ensuring commuters notice new details over time. Her work blends global architecture into a giant abstract map, paying homage to the area’s character.

Nearby, at Wilshire/Fairfax Station, Ken Gonzales-Day presents a digital photography project. The Mexican-American and queer artist drew from LACMA’s permanent collection to create a more inclusive visual narrative. His exhibit honours the nearby museum and the diverse history of the neighbourhood. Metro has long turned transit hubs into art spaces, with more projects planned. The full D Line extension is set for completion by 2027, and additional artists have already been selected for future stations.

The installations add vibrant cultural touches to daily commutes. Kim’s dynamic cityscapes and Gonzales-Day’s inclusive photography now greet passengers underground. More artworks will follow as the line expands in the coming years.