Introduction to me and this lake mapping project
Hi there! A while back I was looking for a lake map that could be proudly framed and hung on a wall. I found that the other lake maps out there are not print worthy or meant to be framed. Most are just digital graphics full of copyright notices, lacking detail, and/or just plain ugly. Not finding anything to my liking, I decided to make my own. When family and friends showed interest in my work, I decided to keep mapping. There are over 10,000 lakes in Wisconsin after all, and I enjoy doing this.
With the above in mind, I decided to start a new map series focused on the lakes of Wisconsin.
Some of the goals of this project are to:
- Create lake maps that look great printed and hanging on your wall.
- Make maps that emote relaxation and fond memories.
- Provide at least a little bit of useful information about each lake, including:
- Lake depth
- Boat launches
- Size
- Fish present
- Landmarks and points of interest
- Subtle information about surrounding land use and terrain
- Anything you want! (your business location, point out the family cottage, etc)
To these ends, I’m starting this project with maps that use old-fashioned, very basic symbols and colors. The backgrounds are soft yet lively watercolors with foregrounds that are basic pencil & pen lines with old-fashioned typefaces. These maps are meant to be printed and framed, although they can certainly be customized and used digitally for other purposes.
Any other suggestions or comments? Please contact me!
~Jeff