Reasons We Need More Illustrated Maps
Most conventional maps are not jus difficult to follow, but pretty boring too. These maps may not be exactly to scale, but they are far more inspiring, and encourage people to take note more of where they are living or visiting.
Hastings, Inky Acorn
Illustrated maps pull you to focus on what matters. Instead of wandering from street to street, the reader’s eye lands right where the artist wants.
British Isles (not sure what the false teeth at the top are to do with anything?!)
Every place has its own mood, and artists pick colours that match the heart of the community. In seaside towns, cool blues and sandy browns echo the water and beaches. For city life, warm bricks and street art shades fill the map with local energy. Careful colour choices create maps that feel personal.
Storytelling Through Visuals
Every sketch tells a tiny story. Iconic buildings, street musicians, or even a local cat can pop up as small drawings. These visual snippets spark memories that plain maps never do. Instead of just reading place names, people see what makes that place special.
Visual stories stay in our minds longer. Research in psychology suggests that when people see a drawing of a local festival or a park full of ducks, the image sticks. You can almost smell the food market or hear laughter from the playground. That makes the visit more memorable, even before you arrive.
Some storytelling tools found on illustrated maps include:
- Character sketches: Little figures add charm and tell who lives or visits there.
- Local landmarks: Art brings unique shops, statues, or buildings to life.
- Seasonal scenes: Trees in bloom, snow-capped rooftops, or festival lights set the time and mood.
- Hidden jokes and icons: Artists slip in fun surprises that reward those who look closely. For instance, this artist creates Lap Maps, for many areas of England. When there is a hill or sharp bend, he writes ‘a bit hairy!’ to warn the reader. You won’t get this in an AA book!
People look longer at illustrated maps. When maps feel like a colourful comic strip, readers want to explore every inch.
This East Sussex map is printed on recycled paper
When a new illustrated map appears, something changes in the way locals see their town. People spot small details that matter to them, and suddenly the place feels more personal.
Illustrated maps are a lifeline for local artists. When a town or community commissions an illustrated map, they don’t just pay for direction—they hire someone to capture their home’s spirit. This is real work for illustrators, many of whom struggle for steady income.
Interactive Map Walks
London, Inky Acorn
Walking the neighbourhood with an illustrated map turns a basic route into an adventure. Clubs or school groups trace the path, stopping for stories at each landmark. Adults and children interact and share what catches their eye.
Illustrated maps are also a great way to learn about the wider world. Like this beautiful illustrated map of India, does it not make you want to investigate further?
