Transit maps hold a unique place in both the urban environment and the cultural zeitgeist, often transcending their utilitarian purposes to become symbols of cities and nations alike. Iconic transit maps such as Henry Charles Beck's 1933 map of the London Underground or Vignelli's 1972 map of the New York subway have been lauded as cultural touchstones that both were inspired by the past and have influenced the future. 

You Are Here is an exhibition that explores the unique relationship between transit maps and the identity of their subjects. A transportation system can become synonymous with a city or nation, reflecting its change over time, spearheading cartographic innocations, or reifying an entirely new vision for space and place. The individual maps in the exhibit serve as a window into the histories of the places they represent and the history of transit cartography as a whole.

Curated by the winner of the California Map Society Student Exhibition Competition Jayne Kilander, will be on view through Friday, August 21, 2026. It is also available to view digitally.

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Join us for an exhibition reception with the curator on Friday, June 19, 2026. Learn more and register to attend.