DÜSSELDORF, Germany — An escalator descends into a dense soundscape of birdsongs. Windows appear to open onto outer space. An overhead LED screen converts human movements into colorful geometric animations.

Yes, they are aesthetic experiences. But they are also part of Germany’s newest subway line, an effort to transform commuter drudgery into art appreciation. The two-mile line, known as the Wehrhahn, is to open here on Saturday, the result of a 15-year, $950 million collaboration among artists, architects, civil engineers and the city government.

“Normally with public art, you have a wall with some kind of painting,” said Ulla Lux of the Düsseldorf culture office. “And we thought, no, it can’t be that. We have to take the next step.”