2019 #5 Topic Introduction: Maps & Plans

 2019 Topic 5: Maps and Plans

Well hello everyone, Keren here and we're being whisked off around the world for a look at artistic cartography, blueprints and contours ( and not of the make-up artists kind!!).

This topic is rich with imagery hopefully the following pictures will guide our way through meandering streams, rivers and delightfully designed structures.

We start with this gorgeously designed travel journal by Emma Williams, which combines several ways of using map images. The little compass and other details finishes it perfectly.

Emma Williams

If the idea of being artistic using a map appeals to you, then look no further than this intricate and clever portrait.

Ed Fairburn

We use maps and plans to guide the way and show us where we should go. Maybe you'd like a more stylish representation of where you are, just like this papercut marvel.

KMO Studio

I love the way that the different undulations in the landscape are represented by the fabric and stitching. 

Mary Bryning

Perhaps you prefer more abstract representation? In pursuit of inspiration for this topic, I learned about choropleth (or thematic) mapping and I thought it would be amazing to have a modern stamped or painted styled representation of it.

Source

Some plans are stylish even without purporting to be! I adore this patent drawing for a 1932 photographic camera. I'm seeing dry wiped Fresco Finish over some paint or cardstock and perhaps some white embossing powder!!

Displate

We all know the sort of vision that appears in our heads when we think of vintage maps. I thought this example was a particularly stylish one.

Retrographik

Then from the old and aged, to the very modern and cool..

Source

Maps don't need to be literal, they can be representational. I think that he next two are gorgeous!

John French

Jazzberry Blue

There are some wonderful ways to incorporate maps into creative projects. We have jewellery;

 Source

and then this emotional piece of poetry for use at a wedding. I'm sure I'm not the only one thinking that this would be a great idea with Alison Bomber's sentiment stamps!

Stonephoto

or this cute and quirky dog portrait? 

@fetchandcanter

When I think about maps and plans, my memory is dragged back to A level Geography and having to create contour diagrams  and plans. This image is both arresting and ingenious.

The Craftiest Fox

I thought we'd finish off with this wonderful piece of map art.

Chris Kenny

You're going to love the projects we have coming up for this topic. We are not doing the linked challenge  for 2019, so if you want to create along with us and this topic, please share on our social feeds so we can see what you get up to. If you need more map and plans inspiration, check out this Pinterest board. The best places are Instagram @paperartsy or post in PaperArtsy People Group on Facebook. Make sure you tag us in your contributions, we love to see what you get up to in your creative world!