Do the Locomotion

A vibrantly decorated GO train car is raising awareness about the environment – and giving students in the Collaborative Program at U of T’s Knowledge Media Design Institute a practical lesson in getting a message out. Using QR codes inside the coach, riders can download a free Android app containing video messages on a range of green issues from experts such as architect Bruce Kuwabara and U of T economics professor David Foot, plus an invitation to post their reactions to an embedded Twitter feed.

The project was a challenge, explains Joseph Ferenbok, assistant director of KMDI, who asked the students to raise awareness of a social issue through multiple media channels. The students helped brainstorm ideas for the multi-pronged project, which was then executed by a local artist group, “No.9.”

The Art Train Conductor No.9 coach rotates between trains on the GTA and Hamilton GO network until December 1. Not a GO rider? Join in anyway at arttrain.no9.ca.