CITYSCAPES EXPLAINED

What is cityscape art?

Cityscape art is the rendering of city topography (buildings, streets and skylines) in beautiful ways. This can be achieved through many mediums such as paintings, photography and sculptures. We at Chisel & Mouse are fascinated by cities - how they're laid out, how they've developed, the messages the architects and their patrons try to transmit, the opportunities they provide for different people to mix and influence each other, the energy they give off. We think cityscape art is about conveying some of these characteristics.

What is 3D map art?

3D map art combines the exactness of map-making with creative artistry to turn flat maps into beautiful 3D works.

Artists employ a variety of methods to create 3D map art:

  • Layering: Using multiple layers of paper, wood, or other materials to build depth
  • Sculpting: Carving or moulding materials like clay or foam to create topographical features
  • Digital modelling: Utilising computer software to design and render 3D maps
  • Mixed media: Combining various materials and techniques for a unique artistic effect

3D map art offers a more immersive and interactive experience than traditional flat maps. The added depth and texture make geographical features more tangible and easier to understand.

These artistic creations serve as powerful educational tools, helping people grasp spatial relationships and geographical concepts more intuitively. Beyond their practical applications, 3D map artworks are simply beautiful to behold. They transform ordinary maps into stunning pieces of art that can enhance any space.

How do we make our cityscapes?

At Chisel & Mouse our cityscape art interpretation is a literal mapping of the architecture using a style which is white and minimal to emphasise the forms. We have selected cities that are world famous and are particularly interesting because of their architecture, layouts and designs.

First, we pick an area and buy some satellite data that covers it. This data gives us a 3D view of the buildings, including those sloping roofs. Next, we tidy up the data by fixing any obvious mistakes (like when scaffolding tricks the software) and mapping any skyline changes since the satellite took its sweep. We then 3D print the cleaned-up data to either make a master pattern for our ready-made cityscapes or use it as-is for custom cityscapes.

Our finished off-the-shelf cityscape maps are resin casts of the moulds, painted and mounted in frames. Many of our cities collection are at a scale of 1:5000 and we are particularly fond of setting them side-by-side and comparing the contrasting layouts and designs (Amsterdam with its small buildings arranged around canals, Chicago with its rigid city grid, London with its organic urban development, Paris with its radial Haussmann design). We think they make great 3d map wall art perfect for a gallery wall!

Our off-the-shelf cityscapes
Examples of our bespoke cityscapes

NLA London cityscapes

Large tabletop cityscape model of the City of London

The NLA (New London Agenda) is an organisation dedicated to directing the future of London's built environment. It provides a forum for different interest groups to come together and discuss future plans.

They have various exhibitions which are open to the public. One is of the a fabulous cityscape model called The City Model. The scale is 1:500.

The other great cityscape model they exhibit is their New London Model. This is at a scale of 1:2000 and covers 247 square kilometres of London. Both of these cityscapes are well worth a visit.

Large table top cityscape model of London

Other examples of map art

We're big fans of the British artist Grayson Perry. His intricate tapestries and etches often incorporate map-like elements to explore social and cultural themes. Check out his Map of an Englishman (photo by Marc Wathieu).

Stephen Walter's detailed hand-drawn maps of London, such as "The Island" combine factual information with personal observations and humour, creating a unique portrait of the city.

Another favourite of ours is American artist Paula Scher. Her colourful, typographic maps of countries and continents have become iconic in the design world, transforming geographical data into vibrant works of art.