MetroCards Artist: Preserving NYC Transit History
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the End of an Era: New York City’s MetroCard Retires
The Passing of a Transit Icon
In 1994, the introduction of the MetroCard marked a important shift in New York City’s subway system, replacing the long-standing subway token. However, many commuters initially resisted the change, struggling to adapt to “the swipe.” As the New York Times reported at the time,some riders even developed techniques like “swinging yoru hand” at the turnstile as if it were “a slow tennis ball coming your way.” That expertise is now a relic of the past.On December 31st, 2023, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) ceased selling MetroCards, fully transitioning to the OMNY tap-and-go system.
This change proved notably poignant for artists like Nina Boesch,a Brooklyn-based creator who has dedicated the last twenty-five years to transforming discarded MetroCards into intricate collages. “My first thought was, Oh, no. Oh, shit!” she exclaimed, reflecting the initial shock of the news.
OMNY: The Future of NYC Transit
OMNY (One Metro New York) is a contactless fare payment system that allows riders to pay for their subway and bus fares using contactless credit and debit cards,smartphones,and wearable devices. The rollout of OMNY began in 2019, with a phased implementation across the subway and bus networks.The MTA has touted OMNY as a faster, more convenient, and more hygienic way to pay for transit.
The transition to OMNY has not been without its challenges. concerns have been raised regarding accessibility for low-income riders and those without access to bank accounts or smartphones. The MTA has addressed some of these concerns by offering OMNY cards for purchase, but the digital divide remains a significant issue.
The Art of the MetroCard: Nina Boesch’s Legacy
Nina Boesch, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, has turned the humble MetroCard into a medium for artistic expression. Her collages depict iconic New York City imagery, including Lady Liberty, Yankee Stadium, Andy Warhol, Derek Jeter, and the infamous pizza Rat. She sells her work online and at craft fairs, with prices starting at $90.
The end of the MetroCard presents a unique challenge for Boesch, who now faces a dwindling supply of her primary artistic material. She is exploring option sources of plastic for her work, but acknowledges that the MetroCard holds a special place in her creative process.
A Timeline of NYC Fare payment
| year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1904 | First subway fare: 5 cents |
| 1953 | Fare increased to 15 cents |
| 1970 |