Tube map's ‘most beautiful’ station that’s filled with colourful mosaics

A London Underground station filled with colourful mosaics could be in the running to be crowned the city’s most beautiful. Tottenham Court Road is covered in stunning artwork including glass mosaics which depict local life above ground.

The mosaics cover plenty of the station's platforms and walkways, brightening up people's journeys to school and work everyday. Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi is responsible for the public art which many people walk past on their commutes. The mosaics were completed in 1986 and cover 950 square metres of the station.

They feature mostly on the Northern line and Central line platforms, as well as the stations interconnecting spaces. The art reflects the Paolozzi's interpretation of the local area and his wider interest in mechanisation, urbanisation, popular culture and everyday life.

He is widely considered to be one of the pioneers of pop art - known for his sculpture and graphic works. The artwork has since undergone major restoration and conservation work in preparation for the station’s expansion to prepare for the introduction of the Elizabeth line.

One of the most complex aspects of this project was the relocation of the mosaic on the former Oxford Street entrance which involved removing the art in one piece and lowering it down a lift shaft to platform level.

Paolozzi's other works have featured at the Tate Modern, Whitechapel Gallery and other art venues. He was knighted in 1989 by Queen Elizabeth II.

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