Archipelago: An Atlas of Imagined Islands

An international group of illustrators has created a new atlas of imaginary islands called "Islomania." The atlas explores the allure of islands and why they have captured the imaginations of writers and artists for centuries, featuring work by Coralie Bickford-Smith, Bill Bragg, Marion Deuchars, Chris Riddell, Maisie Paradise Shearing, Hervé Tullet, and Aušra Kiudulaite. The illustrations invite readers to explore a curious and fabulous archipelago of islands of invention.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2019
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Islomania is a recognized affliction, but what is it about islands that is so alluring, and why do so many people find these self-contained worlds completely irresistible? Utopia and Atlantis were islands, and islands have captured the imaginations of writers and artists for centuries. Venetian sailors were the first to make collections of them by drawing maps of those they visited in their isolari, literally the ‘island books.’ Then in 1719, Daniel Defoe published his tale of a castaway on a desert island, Robinson Crusoe, one of the first great novels in the history of literature and an instant bestseller. Defoe’s tale combined the real and the imagined and transformed them into a compelling creative landscape, establishing a whole literary genre and unleashing the power of an island for storytelling.

To celebrate the tercentenary of Robinson Crusoe’s publication, a truly international range of leading illustrators imagine they, too, have been washed up on their own remote island. In a specially created map, they visualize what it looks like, what it’s called, and what can be found on its mythical shores. In a panoply of astonishingly creative and often surprising responses, we are invited to explore a curious and fabulous archipelago of islands of invention that will beguile illustrators, cartographers, and dreamers alike.

The illustrations in this atlas are a testament to the power of imagination and the endless possibilities of the island as a creative landscape. From Coralie Bickford-Smith’s whimsical and colorful depiction of a paradise island to Bill Bragg’s haunting and atmospheric portrayal of a desolate wasteland, each artist brings their unique vision to the table. The maps themselves are a work of art, with intricate details and beautiful typography that transport the reader to these imaginary worlds.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this atlas is the way. Each illustrator has been given the freedom to create their own island, with its own unique features and inhabitants. From the mythical creatures that roam the shores to the strange and wonderful landscapes that surround them, these islands are a testament to the boundless creativity of the human mind.

Another notable feature of the atlas is the way in which it explores the themes of isolation and loneliness. Many of the islands depicted are remote and isolated, with no human inhabitants in sight. This creates a sense of isolation and loneliness that is both fascinating and poignant. It reminds us of the importance of human connection and the power of imagination to fill the void left by isolation.

In conclusion, Islomania is a fascinating and captivating exploration of the island as a creative landscape. The illustrations in this atlas are a testament to the power of imagination and the endless possibilities of the island as a source of inspiration. Whether you are an illustrator, cartographer, or simply a dreamer, this atlas is a must-read for anyone who loves the idea of exploring new and imaginary worlds.

Weight: 962g
Dimension: 207 x 266 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500022566