Deep Maps
What is a deep map?
According to David Bodenhamer, who has literally written the book on deep mapping, "A deep map is a detailed, multimedia depiction of a place and all that exists within it. It is not strictly tangible; it also includes emotion and meaning. A deep map is both a process and a product – a creative space that is visual, open, multi-layered, and ever changing. Where traditional maps serve as statements, deep maps serve as conversations."In other words, a deep map attempts to expose the glorious complexity of place, or even to produce a "total experience" of place.
The deep maps in this collection are more humble, but they do attempt to identify and explain the meaning of the places they visualize. Some link that meaning to geographical context - to topography, hydrography, proximity to certain elements of the natural or built environment. Some associate that meaning with cultural context - with ideas about space and place, practices, rituals, conventions, and literary expressions.
Each deep map is composed of a historical map and set of annotations. In other words, each has been marked up with notes. With small portions of text and, as often as possible, visual material that help us read or decode the meaning of the original map. The genre allows you to move at your own pace and in the sequence of your choosing.
Please note that annotations can occur anywhere on the surface of a map. Even in the forgotten margins.