These maps are not accurate, but who gives a f***? (…) Maps are beautiful. Maps are art. Maps might be art. In a world obsessed with precision and factual correctness, maps serve as a refreshing departure from reality. They invite us into a realm of imagination, where lines and colors merge to create something far more captivating than mere geographical accuracy.
Consider the ancient maps that adorned the walls of explorers and cartographers. These maps, adorned with intricate illustrations and embellishments, captured not just the physical landscape, but also the spirit of discovery and wonder. They were an expression of human curiosity, a testament to our desire to venture into the unknown. These maps were not limited by the constraints of reality; instead, they became a visual representation of aspirations and dreams.
In the realm of art, maps have taken on a new identity. Artists have embraced them as a medium for self-expression and storytelling. They transform ordinary maps into extraordinary works, infused with personal narratives and emotions. These artistic renditions blur the boundaries between geography and imagination, inviting us to see the world through a different lens.
Maps can be a tool for social commentary, challenging the conventional narratives that often shape our understanding of the world. They can subvert power structures and question dominant ideologies. By manipulating the boundaries and representations of countries and continents, artists expose the complexities and contradictions of our globalized society.
Furthermore, maps have the ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and memory. They can transport us to places we have never been, triggering a wave of emotions and sensations. A map can hold the memories of a cherished journey, reminding us of the people we met and the experiences we had. It can become a visual archive of personal history, connecting us to our roots and shaping our sense of identity.
Ultimately, the beauty of maps lies not in their accuracy, but in their ability to transcend the limitations of reality. They ignite our imagination, provoke our thoughts, and challenge our perceptions. They are an artistic expression that allows us to explore the world within and beyond. So, who gives a f*** about accuracy when maps have the power to be so much more? Let us celebrate the artistry of maps and embrace their capacity to inspire, intrigue, and captivate us.
(…)
I have used Photoshop for creating this maps-like, a background of Google Earth and a Arcscene visualization of 2021 census data over European Union (source https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/gisco/geodata/reference-data/population-distribution-demography/geostat). Regarding the text, I have prompted Open AI with this: “continue this dissertation about maps and art. I starts like this:” These maps are not accurate but who gives a f***?”.
It’s incredible how close this text is to what I really wanted to say. I’m scared. Hope you guys like it.
Alberto C.
GeoinspIred dumb
Geovisualization.net 