Transit Design

Hi, I’m Michael.

Transit Design was born on a cold January night in 2010. I was curled up in bed searching online for a vintage subway sign when I thought, I could probably make one myself.

So I did.

I live in a lovely little lakeside town in Northern Michigan, where I work as a freelance graphic designer with a lifelong love of typography, vintage graphics, travel, and anything with good retro flair.

Transit Design first took shape on Etsy where I began making custom subway signs and designing vintage-style travel posters inspired by my own photography. It was the height of the Great Recession, and thanks to the incredible support of people like you, those sales quite literally helped me keep my home from foreclosure. I’ll always be grateful for that.

Since then, I’ve continued to design and create. Custom wall art remains at the heart of what I do, and I love making artwork that tells a story—whether it’s your European travels, a family wedding, or time at the lake house.

The best art doesn’t just fill a space. It gives it personality.

If you’re looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, let me know. I’d love to make something special with you.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you find something you love—and something that makes your space feel a little more like you.

— Michael Jon Watt