I’ve long been fascinated by cartography as I can trace my family lineage back to Abraham Cresques, a 14th-century Spanish cartographer. So, when I lucked upon the exquisite work of Australian artist Alexander Broers, the man behind Wildwood Maps, I knew a map maestro when I saw one. I discovered Alexander creates hand-drawn, bespoke maps that celebrate the wild corners of our world. His studio sprung to life in 2020 under Cartography Chronicles, then changed its name to Wildwood Maps at the beginning of 2022. Alexander’s talent shines bright when you gaze upon his treasures in the form of his stunning maps, which anyone can purchase via his website. Wildwood maps come in a selection of sizes.
In Alexander’s own words…
“A cornerstone of what I do is that everything is completely drawn by hand using pencil, pen, inks, and other mediums (and an abundance of strong coffee!). In an age where most things are computerised and online, it’s extremely satisfying to make a detailed, hand drawn map that is packed full of character. These cartographic works don’t just tell you where some place is but gives you a hint of adventure; dark mountain ranges, ancient forests, rolling plains, camping fires.
I started creating these maps as a fun project to combine my interests in the world’s wild places, antique cartography and fantasy/ historical novels. My inspiration came from an eclectic mix of sources that I’ve enjoyed over the years; some of these are Patrick O’ Brian’s famous Aubrey and Maturin novels, many outdoor adventures, Christopher Tolkien’s own maps, travelling to distant countries, reading Wilfred Thesiger’s biography on crossing the Empty Quarter Desert (I didn’t finish it, but the map is epic!), dabbling in fine art, and more.
The first map I made was of one of my favourite places; Australia’s Victorian High Country. There’s something very special about those exposed ridge lines, crisp mountain air and wild weather. That first one was so enjoyable that I ended up making more. Researching and learning about places is very enjoyable; learning the layout of a particular coastline, deep diving into the history of a town name or simply discovering that Tasmania has hundreds of giant trees are just some of the things I truly enjoy about the process. Not to mention there are some seriously fun names of towns and other locations, especially in Australia. I hope you enjoy these maps as much as I do. When I look at them, I can almost hear the crackle of a campfire, smell the earth scent of a forest and see mountain peaks breaking through the misty horizon. They were an absolute pleasure to draw.” Alexander Broers, Wildwood Maps.
First Nations of Australia Map
The First Nations map is a celebration of the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, languages and identities found across Australia.
“This particular map has been more than a year in the making and I have learned so much throughout the entire process. I have done my absolute best to include as many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages and dialects that are in use today and those that are classified as dormant. In this way I hope to showcase the diversity of the First Nations that make up Australia, and also acknowledge those that are no longer in use.” Alexander Broers
Victoria Map
Born out of a love for Australia’s mountains, wild places and fantastic nature, the Victoria map has been meticulously hand drawn with black and red inks over a 55-hour process.
The Northern Territory Map
Created in the Territory, this map took several months to complete, consisting of many 4WD trips and approximately 80 hours of drawing time. This map celebrates the NT’s people, wild places and nature.
Limited Edition: NZ Aotearoa Map
This map is an acknowledgment of New Zealand’s iconic mountains, rugged wilderness and historic towns, hand-drawn over 80 hours in a Tolkien style.
Limited Edition: Australia Map
Born out of a love for Australia’s mountains, wild places and fantastic nature, this map has been meticulously hand drawn in inks over an 80-hour process.
To view and purchase Wildwood Maps visit: www.wildwoodmaps.com
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