Functional to emotional: Exploring the role of art in enhancing well-being in Singapore’s MRT stations

Transit spaces, originally designed for functionality, have evolved to also serve as emotional and psychological environments for commuters. Traditionally focused on efficiency, transit spaces now prioritize emotional engagement, combining functional needs with emotional design to create calming, connected, and joyful experiences. In doing so, these spaces not only serve as travel gateways but also provide a sense of respite and well-being. Art, recognized for its impact on mental and physical health, plays a key role in enhancing mood, reducing stress, and fostering social connections. There is increasing research that emphasizes the role of art in health, aligning with the World Health Organization’s definition of health as a holistic state of well-being. This paper explores the influence of art on well-being through Singapore’s Art in Transit (AIT) program, the country’s largest public art initiative within the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. It examines how art in public spaces transforms functional spaces into enriching cultural environments. The study highlights how integrating art into transit infrastructure enhances urban liveability, fosters social interaction, and promotes a sense of place, identity, and community well-being, thus demonstrating the transformative power of art in public spaces.