Handcrafted Maps with Depth and Detail
Art Map Maker creates hand-drawn cartographic art inspired by history and place, crafted with timeless techniques.
Master Map Maker Bob Tibolt
Art Map Maker is the work of Bob Tibolt, a master map maker with over 40 years of experience. Bob learned traditional mapmaking at Dartmouth College, where he studied under Van English, Professor of Geography and a world-renowned cartographer. Professor English taught a classical approach to cartography—combining technical precision with artistic discipline—an approach Bob continues to practice today.
Bob’s maps are created entirely by hand, continuing a tradition of fine art cartography that emphasizes craftsmanship, patience and attention to detail.
Inspiration Behind the Maps
Art Map Maker is dedicated to the craft of hand-drawn cartography, creating detailed map artwork that blends geography, history and fine art. Each piece is made using traditional techniques, resulting in maps that are both informative and visually expressive—designed to be studied, displayed and appreciated over time.
His work is rooted in the belief that maps are more than navigation. For centuries, maps have been objects of reverence – displayed in palaces, libraries and halls of learning.
At the heart of Art Map Maker is a simple idea: maps connect people to the world. They bring places into focus, revive memories and inspire curiosity about what lies beyond familiar borders. Through traditional cartography and artistic mapmaking, Art Map Maker seeks to preserve a meaningful craft that has been celebrated as both science and art throughout history.
Traditional Mapmaking Techniques
Every Art Map Maker piece is developed using time-honored cartographic methods, created entirely by hand and built through a careful, multi-stage process. These techniques reflect a classical approach to hand-drawn cartography, where precision and artistry work together to produce maps that are both accurate and visually distinctive.
Core Techniques Used
- Pen-and-ink linework for structure, detail and clean definition
- Mechanical lettering for consistent, precise typography
- Colored charcoal for depth, warmth, tone and character
Discover the Craft Behind Every Map
Explore how hand-drawn cartography is created—from early sketches to finished artwork—using traditional techniques and timeless design.
Collections & Custom Mapping
Art Map Maker features ongoing series and custom projects, combining traditional cartography with fine art detail.
The Great American Cities Series
A growing body of large-format, hand-drawn city maps that highlight the structure, neighborhoods and identity of iconic American cities. These works focus on strong composition, refined lettering, and layered detail—capturing both geographic accuracy and artistic presence.
Custom Maps
Custom maps are developed around places that hold personal meaning—such as travel routes, neighborhoods, estates, memorial locations, or culturally significant regions. Each project begins with client consultation to understand the story, preferred style and map elements to include. The goal is to create a one-of-one piece that feels personal, intentional and timeless.
A Lifelong Love of Maps
At the heart of Art Map Maker is a simple idea: maps connect people to the world. They bring places into focus, revive memories, and inspire curiosity about what lies beyond familiar borders. Through traditional cartography and artistic mapmaking, Art Map Maker seeks to preserve a craft that remains as meaningful today as it has been throughout history.