GLOBES & MAPS

In my opinion, maps are often greatly overlooked artistically. Though they are utilitarian, many maps are simultaneoulsy beautiful pieces of visual information.

Maps are the central subject matter of the work of the work of Joyce Kozloff (b. 1942).

Intrigued by cartography and its relationship to culture, Kozloff seeks to break down the boundaries between decorative and fine art through her varied depictions of maps.

Kozloff's works depict a wide range of maps, from "legendary" ones to those approved for civic use by NOAA.

She cites her extensive travel as central to her work, and completes many pieces that are inspired by a particular journey.

Kozloff's work perfectly translates to public art, and she has completed installations all over the world, including San Francisco International Airport and Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.

Kozloff uses maps as a means of opening discussion about imperialism and other geopolitical issues.

Though she is admittedly interested in the aesthetic function of maps, her work also challenges the viewer with other issues. The work below, Targets, is an environment in which the interior is painted with aerial maps of places that were bombed by the US between 1945 and 2000.

Kozloff has found that maps have allowed her to explore many issues through her work by still adhering to the Western ideal of art and beauty. According to her, maps are "both graphically satisfying and intellectually questioning."

Kozloff is represented by DC Moore Gallery in New York.

I'm wearing a vintage Diane von Furstenberg jumpsuit from Beacon's Closet in Brooklyn, thrifted woven belt, thrifted vintage straw clutch, Swatch starfish watch, no name bangle, and Cynthia Vincent x Target wedges.

[All images from joycekozloff.net.]