Geographic maps are one of the oldest and most powerful tools invented by humanity to know and understand the world we live in.
The technique of drawing in a two-dimensional space a representation of a territory has evolved over time and has become more and more precise and refined. Starting from the first years of school with the study of geography but also during holidays in cities or in natural open spaces we used to read the maps, compare this representation with the real world and draw lessons.
Over the past decade, however, paper maps have shedding room for digital services embedded in computers and mobile phones such as Google Maps.
The traditional geographic map is retrieved in this artistic trend that uses it as an expressive tool, highlighting its strong symbolic content and its ability to root into reality. In the hands of artists, the geographical map transforms into the perfect paradigm of man living in his world.
Los Angeles Map by Map Map Maps
This artist works exclusively on urban maps and transforms them into elegant bi-tonal compositions.
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Vienna City Map by Maptastix
The Maptastix artist uses the most advanced technologies such as the 3D view of an urban area. Working for subtraction gets a unique view of several cities. More lines, more curves and clear definition of coastlines and rivers take shape in new rhythmic flow patterns and almost infinite connections.
Paris by Mondrian Maps
The stylistic figure of this artist is very linear: combining Mondrian’s intuitions and aesthetics with urban representations: the result is, however, a joy for the eyes.
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Milan Italy watercolor map by Anne E. McGraw.
Anne E. McGraw uses watercolor colors and a feminine sensitivity to interpreting city maps. The result is very precise but at the same time dreamed and dreamlike.
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New York Map by Jazzberry Blue
Jazzberry Blue still cited in these pages with its enormous production and the characteristic color palette that distinguishes its work. His testing with the map is probably the most successful trend of his art.
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Map Patterns by Irene Demetri
Now it’s your turn! If you want to experiment with creating digital graphics using map elements, you may want to use these EPS file formats to use in Photoshop and Illustrator.
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