Train operator Southeastern has partnered with Kent-based artists to encourage customers to explore the county by train.
Artists have produced six new designs, which showcase some of the destinations across the network, including Rochester, Whitstable and Broadstairs.
The posters, which are on display at stations now, were designed by Broadstairs-based illustrator Lisa McGuinness and street artist Catman, who is known as the Banksy of Kent.
Nikki Causer, Southeastern’s Head of Marketing, said: “There is such a rich artistic heritage across our network, with many vibrant and creative communities. Adding value to the area we serve is important to us, so I’m pleased to have been able to commission local artists for this project.
“We were inspired by the popularity of vintage rail posters and asked Lisa and Catman to create something similar, but with a distinctively modern twist, and we are so pleased with the outcome.”
Illustrator Lisa McGuinness added: “Being commissioned to paint a series of posters by Southeastern was an absolute joy. It was great to have been able to create illustrations highlighting this amazing corner of Kent.
“I wanted to depict that Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate each have something different and exiting to offer tourists.
“The reaction to the illustrations has been fantastic, especially within the local community. I have always had a love of transport posters and it’s brilliant to be part of that legacy.”
Catman said:
“The collaboration with Southeastern was a great opportunity to show how I see some of the destinations.
“I already had a connection with each destination I was asked to paint so it was a pleasure to be involved. I studied art in both Canterbury and Rochester, spent much of my childhood in Faversham, and grew up and lived in Whitstable.”
As one of the UK’s largest rail operators, Southeastern is preparing to carry thousands of leisure customers this summer.
More than half a million customers travelled through Margate station alone between the end of May and mid-September last year.
From next month, some trains to and from the coast will be longer to provide more space at busier times.
There will also be additional late-night weekend services from Margate to make it easier for people attending music events at Dreamland to travel by train.
