Let’s explore how to make a map from junk paper and paint. A way to reuse and recycle materials into a new artwork by using papier mache to glue and layer paper for the base. Then paint and draw your own adventure onto the surface.
An online guide to create a abstract imaginary map. This green activity reuses materials with a papier mache technique and painted or drawn designs.
Materials
THEME
We will make an imaginary map like an abstract landscape. Create your own story by exploring trails through the countryside and paint your own colourful topography. (natural features of the land like rivers, hills, jungle, lakes).
from junk paper
Tear scraps of used junk paper into small sizes. It’s ok to have rough edges and odd shapes especially for the sides of your base.
Apply glue to the back of the paper and stick it down to each other and make your base shape as an area of land or like a little island.
Continue for about 3-4 layers. On the last layer try and use white paper like the back of A4 printed paper or envelopes to leave a clear base to paint.
Tip: Use the edge of a plastic card like an old mrt card to smooth the paper down and press out air bubbles in the glue.
Let it Dry!
using Acrylic or Poster paints
Choose 4 colours for your map.
I have on my earthy map :-
You can have different colours for different landscapes like a green countryside or a beach and blue island seascape. But try and choose contrasting colours for your base and details
OPTION:
If you don’t have paints you can also use a
brown paper base and just use markers and
coloured pencils to draw your map details.
for the rivers and trails
Mix the blue paint with more water and drip it on the surface. Then lift the base and tilt it to the sides to let the water flow like a river. Once you are happy with the arrangement place it flat and let the paint dry
Then repeat this technique with the dark brown paint for the trails.
Tip: Use a container for the liquid blue paint and drip it in various spots before tilting it and letting it flow. You can add a bigger pool of blue for a lake or pond.
While the liquid moves randomly, still think about the composition and spread out the flow.
Use a smaller brush to paint or a marker to draw and connect the trails with some topographical lines and curves.
You can also add some symbols for areas of interest like trees or mountains.
Add dots and lines in white for your path through your map or mark your start and finish viewpoints.
Your masterpiece map is finished!
Roll up your map for a gift or hang it on the wall as an abstract artwork!
Would be great to see what you made!
Please share and tag your creations on instagram with #ankcraft
@artsnkraf
Sometimes its more fun to make stuff together or if you need a bit of motivation or a personal art guide
for more explorations and techniques
> Drop by for a workshop in Singapore
Here are some links where you can read more about the possibilities and different ideas on creative Map Making.
Some local Exhibitions related to Maps:
Contemporary Maps:
In Illustration :