Ed Fairburn uses paper he finds as maps for his canvas, making gradual changes to features like contours and roads until a face is formed from within the map itself. The finished result is a unique hybrid between man and landscape, begging questions about the ways in which a space or a location can define an identity.
Employing traditional tools such as ink or pencil, Fairburn intervenes with a range of original maps, spending hours at a time to complete each piece. A lengthy study of each map takes place beforehand, to understand better the landscape at hand.
The choice of maps in and of itself is significant. “I like a map that’s easy to fold away, but I don’t let that influence my choice,” Fairburn explained in an interview with yatzer. “I’ll either source my maps from charity shops or old book shops – we have lots of both here in the UK,” he added. “If I’m working on a specific commission I’ll usually source a map on the internet to make the most suitable choice, in terms of the location.”
When considering a map to work on, he looks at the patterns, orientation, and other characteristics, preferring the more “cluttered” maps, which according to him offer the most scope. In order to appreciate his work, it’s best to view it from afar. Take a step back.
