A Kent artist is set to make history by creating the “world’s first doodle train,” as he covers an entire 50-foot train carriage with his unique doodles. Sam Cox, widely known as Mr Doodle, gained fame for transforming his Tenterden home into a canvas of doodle art. This ambitious project is part of the Kent & East Sussex Railway’s (K&ESR) 50th anniversary celebrations.
Mr Doodle began this exciting challenge on a Friday, marking it as his largest vehicle project to date. “It’s going to be so fun. It’s especially nice that it’s all happening in my hometown,” he expressed, highlighting his enthusiasm for the project, which he is personally funding.
The artist started his work live at the Tenterden platform, drawing directly onto a special protective wrap that covers the carriage. This technique is typically used for applying pre-printed designs to vehicles. Mr Doodle began his doodling at 11:00 BST, and he anticipated that the process would take several hours. “There’s a good amount of space for me to work onto; it is going to be a very enjoyable process,” he shared with BBC Radio Kent.
Mr Doodle is no stranger to large-scale projects. He has previously covered everything from a Formula One car to his own home in his signature monochrome doodles. His work is characterized by dense clusters of characters, objects, and patterns that create a whimsical and immersive experience.
As part of the anniversary festivities, the K&ESR will host various Mr Doodle activities at the station over the weekend. Visitors will have the opportunity to create their own cardboard trains and participate in a treasure hunt to find a series of Mr Doodle’s signature doodles scattered around the station.
Robin Coombes, the General Manager of K&ESR, acknowledged that while some heritage rail enthusiasts might be skeptical about this initiative, the railway is committed to celebrating its past while also looking toward the future. “We want to continue to thrive and bring new audiences to our railway and the area,” he stated.
The Doodle Train will not only be a visual spectacle but will also join the railway’s regular passenger fleet for selected services throughout the summer. The first two services featuring the Doodle Train will depart from Tenterden at 11:25 am on both Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28. Mr Doodle will be present at the platform to wave off the first train, adding a personal touch to the event.
In addition to the doodling activities, a special ‘golden ticket’ will be randomly issued to one passenger on each of the first two Doodle Train services. This ticket will entitle the holder to a family ticket for a future trip on the K&ESR, making the experience even more exciting for families.
Moreover, the Doodle Train will be included in the railway’s Summer ‘Kids Go FREE’ offer, which allows any child under 16 to travel for free with a fare-paying adult. This initiative aims to encourage families to visit and enjoy the unique experience of riding the Doodle Train.
Mr Doodle expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “I am very happy to be doodling a train! It’s the first time my drawings have appeared on a vehicle this size. It’s going to be so fun! I hope the people here will enjoy it!” His passion for art and community shines through in this project, as he aims to bring joy and creativity to his hometown.
As the Doodle Train takes shape, it symbolizes not only a celebration of the K&ESR’s rich history but also a forward-thinking approach to engaging new audiences. The railway has a long-standing tradition of preserving its heritage while embracing innovative ideas that resonate with the community.
Mr Doodle’s journey as an artist began in 1994, and he has since transformed various surfaces into his DoodleLand, a whimsical universe filled with his distinctive doodles. His work has gained international recognition, and he has collaborated with numerous iconic brands, further expanding his reach and influence in the art world.
With the Doodle Train project, Mr Doodle is not just creating art; he is fostering a sense of community and encouraging creativity among visitors of all ages. The event promises to be a memorable experience for families, art enthusiasts, and railway lovers alike.
As the K&ESR celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Doodle Train stands as a testament to the railway’s commitment to innovation and community engagement. The collaboration with Mr Doodle exemplifies how art can enhance cultural experiences and bring people together.
In conclusion, the Doodle Train project is a unique and exciting initiative that showcases the creativity of Mr Doodle while celebrating the rich history of the Kent & East Sussex Railway. As the artist brings his doodles to life on the train carriage, he invites everyone to join in the fun and experience the joy of art in a new and unexpected way.
Source: BBC, K&ESR Press Release
