National Geographic Traveller Magazine City Map Illustrations

Illustrated map of New Orleans capturing iconic landmarks alongside trendy neighbourhoods, infused with the festive spirit of Mardi Gras and French influences

As a long term contributor, I had the opportunity to create a series of National Geographic Traveller magazine city map illustrations.

Painting a Picture of Adventure

This series took the reader on a journey, exploring some of the world's most iconic cities, guided by the insights of a local writer. Each map served as a visual companion to the text, and worked in collaboration with the writer's unique voice.

Peeling Back the Layers of the City

The challenge was to reveal something deeper for the magazine’s adventurous readers; to peel back the familiar image of the place and offer a fresh perspective, without losing what makes it iconic. Frequently, the focus was on trendy or up-and-coming neighbourhoods, so the homework felt less like research, and more like tapping into the latest… je ne sais quoi! To portray these places, I montaged imagery, texture and urban hand lettering to craft an impression, rather than drawing a specific landmark. Different layers turning each map into an aspirational story, waiting to be explored.

Hand-Lettering: The Local Vernacular

Embracing the 'outsider' role, I approach distant places with fresh eyes. As contradictory as it sounds, I feel that distance helps bring me closer to a place's essence. The outsider’s gaze is a kind of superpower to an illustrator - a fresh vantage point that helps me spot the quirks and cultural nuances that stand out precisely because they're unfamiliar.

In this way, I love to draw inspiration from the typography spotted in architecture, local storefronts and signage, when I’m hand lettering. It feels like expressing the words and names in a sympathetic vernacular, letterforms mixing like voices. These influences all contributed to city maps that don’t just guide you from A to B, but that shares the secret lowdown on alleyway bars and the tastiest street food!

A Palette of Local Inspiration

From shades of flora, light, and architectural tones, a spectrum of colours would jump out as I researched. I then carefully curate a palette of interacting hues that reflected the unique character of the environment.

I’m really proud of my National Geographic Traveller magazine city map illustrations, as an examples how exciting and memorable visuals can foster a connection with readers. Each city's distinct history, and character were embodied in my illustrations creating a showcase of cultural diversity.

Let's Create Together

If you're interested in traveller city map illustrations, I'd love to hear from you. To explore further, take a look at my map illustration service page Let's collaborate to bring your vision to life. Together, we can create visuals that guide, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.