This class is all about learning to see creatively through maps. Open to anyone with a love of maps, it doesn't matter if you're a designer or not – maps come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and forms. The end goal is to create a special map that you can give to someone this holiday season.

Don't worry if you've already taken the MAP MAKING class. This is the perfect time to revisit the theme of maps with a new project and fresh eyes. This time there will be regular email updates and inspiration direct from the instructor each week, who will also be giving project feedback. One lucky student will win 2 awesome map related items!

Note: Heads up, this is a low budget production (but BIG on ideas!). Be sure to use the links shared in the newly annotated videos, as well as the resources in the online classroom. You may want to supplement design skills through additional Skillshare classes, and by asking questions in the classroom.

How It Works

Join the session!
Every few days you’ll receive an email with instructions and tips on how to complete each one of the class milestones.
Share each of your milestones in the Project section for feedback from the instructor, and classmates. (Participation is encouraged).
Use the Discussion section to ask questions along the way and to find and share new resources.
Need extra help? Participate in a live Q&A session with the instructor on Wednesday, Dec 9th at 12pm EST.

Key Dates and Milestones

Milestone 1: Collect inspiration + Don't overthink it (Nov 30)

Assignment: Watch into video, Video 2: Hand drawn maps, Video 3 & 4: Inspiration of the non-digital kind, Video 5: Imaginary city exercise. Feel free to skip ahead to the next milestone if you want more time to work on your final map at the end.
Deliverable: Share your own inspiration you find in the discussion area or on your project board. Share your hand drawn map + imaginary city exercises. (due Dec 6)
Note: Upload a screenshot or .jpg of your file, or share a link to your document through a service such as DropBox.

Milestone 2: Think about digital + format (Dec 7)

Assignment: Watch video 6 & 7: Digital Mapping & Integration, video 8 & 9: Tools and techniques
If it suits your interests, you may also want to watch the class Art of the Travel Poster.
Hint: reference the INSPIRATION! thread under the "Community" discussion area for more tips and resources!
Deliverable: Develop concept for your project map, share ideas and sketches on project board. (Due Dec 9)

Milestone 3: Final project

Assignment: Create a map of your choosing, about anything you'd like, and in any format. Use this class as an excuse to try new things and tools, but remember simple can be effective too. Given that it's the holiday season, consider how you can give/gift your map to others.
Deliverable: Upload your final map to share! (Due Dec 18)

BONUS!
One lucky student will be selected to win a copy of John Roman’s The Art of Illustrated Maps as well as a copy of Herb Lester's Paris Small Shops Map (written by Anne!). The "Most Creative" map (don't worry, mundane can be awesome too) submitted to the Session project board will be the winner.

FAQs

Do I need a Premium Membership to participate in the session?
Yes, you will need to sign up for a Premium Membership in order to enroll and participate in the session. Upgrade to a Premium Membership here. (You can sign up directly for this class here).

What if I have already posted a project in this class?
Then you’re one step ahead! Simply post all the other class projects/project steps by the final deadline to successfully complete the session.

Can I still join even if the session has started already?
Yes! You can join anytime throughout the session and catch up at your own pace.

What if I miss a deadline?
Don’t worry! You can still catch up by completing the projects/project steps you missed and moving on to the next.

Can I still take the classes even after the session has ended?
Yes! You can still enroll in any of the classes after the session ends to learn at your own pace.

How do I submit my project assignments?
Navigate to the “Class Project” tab located in each class to start your project and submit it to the class project gallery. Other student projects will be viewable in the “Project Gallery” tab. Make sure to set your project privacy settings to be viewable to the “Public” or “Classmates Only” so that other students and the class TAs can give you feedback!

Have any other questions or need more help?
Email any other questions or feedback to help@skillshare.com.

3 Weeks of Map-Making: Give the Gift of a Map this Holiday Season

Nov 30 - Jan 11

3 Weeks of Map-Making: Give the Gift of a Map this Holiday Season

Nov 30 - Jan 11