Mapping Art + Design

Maps
Definition:
A map is a symbolized depiction of a space which highlights relations between components (objects, regions, themes) of that space. Most usually a map is a two-dimensional, geometrically accurate representation of a three-dimensional space; e.g., a geographical map. However, computers and database systems have allowed for the growth of Geographic Information Systems, or GIS, which allow for dynamic, real-time interaction with geographic data. More generally, maps can be devised to represent any local property of the world or part of it, or any other space, such as the brain (see Brain mapping) or extra-terrestrial mapping.
-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Map

Artist's Mapping Projects

Jasper Johns Map, 1961
"Whether or not we try to interpret this painting as a rethinking of America, we discover maps to be an interesting visual subject, because while they are themselves concrete objects, at the same time they are abstract representations of geographical and political boundaries, somewhat arbitrary organizations imposed on the land. A subtle but important conceptual issue arises here: has Johns painted a map or a painting of a map? We might think both, but he felt it was the former, that instead of trying simply to represent something, as most past painters have done, he painted the thing itself. Theoretically, we could use this map in a classroom as easily as another."
-Philip Yenawine, "How to Look at Modern Art"
Map
Map (B&W)
Other works

Nina Katchadourian

Kathy Prendergast, Lost Map
In describing “Lost Map” Prendergast writes: “For the last few years I have been researching place-names with the idea of producing an “Emotional Atlas of the World.” This atlas would show all the places in the world which have names connected with emotions, i.e., Lost Bay, Lonely Island, Hearts Desire, etc., rather than the conventional atlas which shows places of importance. “Lost Map” is a variation on this theme. Through Prendergast’s work, we may come to know every “lost” place in North America. -http://www.velocitymadegood.org/writing/writing_presentations_frame.html
more of Prendergast's work

Alighiero Boetti, Mappa del Mondo

Joyce Kozloff

GPS art
GPS artist Jeremy Wood's Meridian Project
A walk though London along the quote: “It is not down in any map; true places never are.” (from Herman Melville's Moby Dick)
more GPS drawings