Dawn Lee- Homer Map Drawing and Imaging presentation 2
This project combines two paradigms of representation: the map and the window. The map is a two-dimensional diagram of three-dimensional space, and the window is a two-dimensional illusion of three-dimensional space. Both are representations. Or representations. In other words, they re-present, or re-construct, a reality that is not present, as if it were present—like language does, in fact. We can call them visual languages.
In this project, I will be organising my map/window imagery around a character and that character’s story, paying special attention to place—where the story happens and the character’s travels—and things—the symbolic objects that represent the character’s attributes and story.
The map I used is called a ‘Strip Map’, by John Ogilby (1600-1676).
It is a highly original format of Atlas which uses a system of scrolled parchment taking the reader from one destination to a designated town straight ahead. Each scroll has a compass rose to show change of orientation.
My chosen character is Homer J. Simpson, from a show that is especially dear to my heart, the Simpsons.
The Simpsons first aired in 1987 in the Tracy Ullman Show. It is a television sitcom about a dysfunctional family. It was created by Matt Groening. Other developers include Sam Simon and James L. Brooks.
When the show first aired, Homer was described to be a strict father, then in the later episodes he was developed to become the dumb, lovable man he is now.
I chose Homer because I think that he possess an extremely interesting and dimensional personality. In the show, we get a glimpse of Homer’s character by the various actions and places he goes to. For instance, Homer’s laziness is expressed through his actions, such as sleeping during work. Homer’s inferiority complex is portrayed through his interactions with his next door neighbour, Ned Flanders. Homer’s love for his family is described in the scenes where he is consoling Lisa or hugging Marge.
I illustrated the various places Homer travels to on a daily basis, and the different activities he carries out in those places. I used watercolour and ink for my illustrations.
I changed the light brown lines on my original map into car roads, to describe Homer’s “travelling”. I used the compass roses as clocks to express time.
