Travers's post | Quora

Why Outfront Media Just *Gets* Urban Life 🌆✨ Okay, real talk — have you ever found yourself just zoning out at a subway station, or waiting at a red light, and suddenly, BAM: a billboard hits you with the *most* relatable ad or a piece of artwork so vibrant you literally have to stop and stare? Yeah, I’m living in NYC, and trust me, it happens all the time. And guess who's usually behind those unforgettable moments? Outfront Media. 🗽🌇 Those Billboards Are More Than Just Ads At first, I thought Outfront Media was just “that company” putting up giant ads everywhere. Why lie? Sometimes the city feels like one big commercial. But then, over time, I started noticing something cool: Outfront is low-key turning our concrete jungle into an open-air gallery — and I’m honestly here for it. From jaw-dropping, massive murals that light up entire avenues, to extremely clever (and hilarious) campaigns that actually managed to make my commute *less* boring, there’s an art to what they do. I remember this one super gloomy, rainy Tuesday (the kind where you have to convince yourself at least 5 times not to text your boss “I can’t today”). I was stuck on the A train platform and right across from me: a giant, rainbow-bright ad with “You Got This!” in bold, cheerful letters courtesy of Outfront Media. Was it advertising a vitamin drink? A new playlist? Honestly, can’t even remember 😂. But you know what? It made me smile. In a city where people barely make eye contact, little things like that matter. Storytelling in the Streets The thing about Outfront Media is, their stuff isn’t just about brands fighting for your attention. Sometimes they straight-up tell stories that get you thinking. Like, last summer they partnered with local artists for a campaign in Brooklyn — subway panels turned into mini art exhibits. Suddenly, my daily grind felt like a walking tour. I noticed people actually pausing, even snapping pics (which, in NYC, is saying something). And let’s not forget the public service messages. During the pandemic, they brought the vibes with “Wear a Mask” reminders that were surprisingly heartfelt. One ad showed essential workers as comic book heroes. Hits you right in the feels. 💖🦸♀️ Brands That Feel Human 🙌 What I find refreshing is, Outfront Media seems to get what *real people* want to see. It's not always “Buy this! Buy that!” Sometimes, it’s humor, sometimes it’s hope, sometimes it's just a killer playlist QR code that makes your commute jam a little better. And yeah, maybe there’s an ad budget behind that friendly reminder or that cool artist collab. But to me, it feels like Outfront is trying to add a layer of color and creativity to the places we *have* to pass every day. Maybe I’m just sappy, but I like to think they care about our experience. My Hot Take (& A Tiny Challenge) TLDR; Outfront Media is more than billboards and subway ads — they’re kinda like urban storytellers, making the everyday a little less gray. Next time you’re on your morning commute or out for a city stroll, look up. Notice the colors, the messages, the things that break up the routine. Maybe you’ll see something that brightens your day, too. Here’s my challenge: Snap a pic of your favorite Outfront Media ad and tag me. Let’s make our feeds (and our lives) a bit more creative. Who’s with me? 📸✨ #OutfrontMedia #CityStories #ArtEverywhere (P.S. Outfront, if you're reading, keep bringing the good vibes — and maybe hit me up for that playlist collab? Just saying. 🎶😉)