Wiltshire llustrated
A hand-drawn celebration of Wiltshire, capturing its character through illustration, lettering, and detail
Concept
This map began as an idea to create a unique illustrated interpretation of Wiltshire, showcasing the county in a way that felt personal, detailed, and full of character. I wanted every element to be hand drawn and handwritten, giving the piece a sense of warmth and individuality.
Planning & Iteration
What I initially underestimated was just how much planning the project would require. The map evolved significantly over time and went through three distinct versions before reaching its final form. Each iteration helped refine the layout, balance the composition, and ensure that the final piece felt both visually engaging and accurate.
Process
The illustration was built up gradually, with careful attention to structure, spacing, and detail. From early sketches through to final linework and lettering, every stage was done by hand. It was a real exercise in patience and precision, with constant adjustments along the way to bring everything together cohesively.
Final Piece
The finished map brings together the landmarks, place names, and character of Wiltshire in a detailed illustrated composition. It’s designed to invite closer inspection, offering new details the longer you spend with it.
Reflection
This project was far more involved than I first expected, but also one of the most rewarding! I’m really pleased with how it turned out and hope it encourages people to take a closer look at the county in a new way.
I also entered this piece into my first exhibition at The Waverley in Chippenham in summer 2025, where it was shown and has since been sold. A4 giclée prints are available to order here.