By Sophia Scherr
Muni is more than just a system of buses, trains, streetcars and cable cars. It's a living entity that pulses through the streets of San Francisco, connecting riders to the neighborhoods and people that they love. In the vibrant pages of "Muni Is My Ride," artist Keith Ferris and writer Lia Smith invite readers to celebrate the soul of Muni.
The project began as a collection of sketches depicting interesting passengers that caught Ferris’ eye. After a few years, he realized those sketches were something special: a mosaic of people who make up the heart of Muni. Ferris and Smith, who are both passionate about the transit system, found inspiration in each other as the project unfolded. What started as a passenger showcase grew to include portraits of Muni operators.
Ferris and Smith then embarked on a journey (during COVID no less!) to capture the essence of riding and operating Muni. The pair conducted in-depth interviews and lightning-fast portrait drawing sessions with Muni operators whenever and wherever they could. The interviewing process wasn’t easy at first, as some operators were not eager to open up. However, through word of mouth, a handful of operators agreed to share their stories. The diversity of the operators’ backgrounds and perspectives adds more layers to the narrative of what Muni means to people.
Ferris and Smith found unexpected joy and serendipity as they were creating the book, making new friendships and improving their marriage, highlighting the magic of Muni in facilitating connections.
As readers make their way through the pages of "Muni Is My Ride," Ferris and Smith hope they’ll develop a deep appreciation for our system and its dedicated operators and staff.
“Muni is more than just a mode of transportation,” says Smith. "In a world that can feel increasingly individualistic, Muni offers a chance for people to interact with one another, fostering a sense of community and shared humanity”.
The authors also encourage readers to recognize the humanity of the operators who provide our city with such an essential service. Ultimately, the book is intended to serve as a reminder of the shared responsibility that binds San Franciscans to their public transit system and to inspire readers and riders to take pride in Muni.
“Muni Is My Ride” is the perfect gift for the Muni or public transportation lover in your life this holiday season, as it offers readers a glimpse into the people that make our system so unique. You can find it at the following locations:
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Local independent bookstores Bird & Beckett, Christopher's, Dog Eared Books, Fabulosa, Green Apple on the Park, the Market Street Railway Museum, Medicine for Nightmares and the Russian Hill Bookstore
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The San Francisco Public Library
Published December 14, 2023 at 10:23AM
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