Creatively Mapping the World: Cityscapes and Illustrations by Jennifer Maravillas

Your maps and cityscapes are very unique. How did this style develop?

My style has gradually evolved over the course of my life. Combining all types of media is incredibly inspirational and gives me the feeling that I’m a scientist of some sort. I draw a lot in transit, so my looser styles are dependent oftentimes on a bumpy road or airplane on the runway.

Why have you chosen cities and maps as your subjects?

My fascination with how we use land began as a small girl traveling on airplanes and in cars, sketching whatever was in front of me along the way. Staring out of windows at the world passing by, I have always loved to see both civilization and nature from a distance. Now, I’m obsessed with learning how cities and nations develop over time and what we can learn from the past to inform our future decisions.

Let’s talk about process. How do you go about creating each piece?

Experimenting with and learning new media is central to my process. I begin by studying the history of a subject or by visiting and deciding what media might convey best the feeling I get about the area. I treat each piece a bit like I’m developing a character of a story by taking a step back often and listening to what should be done next, or even starting over.

What do you hope your illustrations tell viewers about the places they represent?

The main purpose behind all of my work is to create a portrait of a community or space through which viewers can gain a shared sense of the land.

What inspires your work?

The genesis of my illustrations is typically in whatever I’m studying at the time- one subject leads to another, branching out to the ends of the internet and the written word. It’s fun and a bit like a self-directed school- right now I’m reading a lot about environmental psychology and diversity within New York City.

If you could illustrate anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

My goal is to illustrate as much of the world in maps and landscapes as I can in one lifetime. My favorite place to illustrate, shamefully, is in bed- wherever that might be.

You can see more of Jennifer’s work on her website.

Do you like illustrated maps? What do you like about Jennifer’s work? Share your thoughts in the comment below!