John Williams

Artist Statement

Mapping

Maps are catalysts. They enable us to forecast ourselves into the future, remember the past, or signify particular cultural traditions. As a representation, maps offer a specific point of view. Often we note the grand traditions in our culture but ignore those that play a role in our daily lives. As a continual tourist, I observe these experiences as fundamental to our collective understanding. Documenting events, spaces, or relationships helps us understand who we are and how we fit in.

Mapping and its tools, are similar to any scientific pursuit. Usually we read maps on flat surfaces, but when projected in the round these flat images distort. The fact remains that all maps are abstractions of both the natural and the man made world, and that our interpretation dictates an object’s relevance.

The endless interpretation and abstraction of natural surroundings and cultural traditions constitutes my interest in art and mapping.

-- John Williams