Art and architecture on the Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore)
Art and architecture on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) of Singapore have developed progressively since the system's inception. The stations on the initial network, the North–South and East–West lines, were built with simple and functional designs that prioritised cost efficiency and safety. As the network expanded, architectural themes were introduced, with varied roof structures. These include either giving stations an "ethnic touch", such as Chinese style roofs at Chinese Garden station and a Minangkabau design at Eunos station, or to simply enhance visual appeal, as seen in the cylindrical roof design of EWL stations in eastern Singapore. Newer stations incorporated barrier free features such as lifts and tactile guidance routes, while overall designs evolved to reflect more contemporary architectural trends.
The early MRT network also included murals and sculptures that depicted the history or activities of the areas surrounding the stations, although these artworks were not part of the original station plans. In 1997, the Art-in-Transit (AIT) programme was launched, beginning with the North East Line (NEL). The programme integrates artworks directly into station design and has since commissioned over 300 works for 80 stations across the NEL, the Circle Line (CCL), the Downtown Line (DTL) and the Thomson–East Coast Line (TEL), with future works planned for the Jurong Region (JRL) and Cross Island (CRL) lines. The initiative aims to enhance the commuting experience, foster a sense of identity and provide a platform to showcase local artistry, connecting commuters to Singapore's histories, geographies and communities.