New Yorkers have an unshakeable bond with their transit system—it’s a love-hate relationship filled with gripes, jokes, and shared experiences. So it’s only fitting that *The New Yorker* magazine, a staple of New York culture, has chronicled this dynamic through its iconic cartoons. The new exhibit, “Commentary on The Commute: A Century of The New Yorker’s Transportation Cartoons,” dives deep into this humor, showcasing a century of comical insights into public transportation.
Located inside Grand Central Terminal, this free exhibit runs until October 26, 2025, making it an accessible gem for both locals and tourists. Curated by Jodi Shapiro of the New York Transit Museum, the exhibit features a curated selection of cartoons that highlight the absurdities and delights of commuting in New York City.
Themes That Resonate Across Time
As you wander through the exhibit, you’ll encounter works by 57 artists, illustrating how transit humor has evolved while still capturing timeless themes. From crowded trains and quirky fellow commuters to the awe of Grand Central’s architecture, the exhibit reflects the quirks of urban life. Shapiro explains that while some aspects of transit have changed—think trolleys to double-decker buses—others remain constant, showcasing the duality of New York’s transit landscape.
Each section of the exhibit—such as Commuter Behavior, Service Changes, and Uniquely New York—offers a unique perspective on the transit experience. One standout moment is in the Critters section, where whimsical cartoons feature pigeons contemplating a flight to Brooklyn, alongside other delightful characters like monkeys and an alien. This playful approach draws visitors into the multifaceted world of New York’s commuters.
Capturing Moments in Time
The exhibit also serves as a poignant reminder of New York’s resilience. A stark juxtaposition is found in a cover from December 1978, depicting a bustling Grand Central, next to a March 2020 image of the same terminal eerily empty during the pandemic. This contrast captures not only the changes in the transit system but also in the city itself, resonating deeply with anyone who has navigated the complexities of urban life.
Among the celebrated cartoonists featured are Roz Chast and Peter Arno, who have shaped the visual language of humor for generations. Yet Shapiro has made a point to include lesser-known artists, ensuring a rich tapestry of styles and perspectives. “There’s a type of humor for everybody,” she notes, reinforcing the idea that art can be both reflective and entertaining.
Art and Transit as New York Institutions
“Commentary on The Commute” is more than just an art exhibit; it’s a love letter to two enduring institutions of New York: its public transit system and The New Yorker. As you navigate the hustle and bustle of Grand Central, take a moment to immerse yourself in this exhibit. It offers a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on the shared experiences that define life in this vibrant city.
Whether you’re waiting for a train or simply passing through, this exhibit captures the essence of New York—a city that thrives on movement, humor, and the stories found along the way. In a world that moves quickly, this exhibition slows down time, inviting us to appreciate the art that mirrors our everyday journeys.
