This Is Not an Atlas
A Global Collection of Counter-Cartographies
By: kollektiv orangotango+
About This Book
This collection shows how maps are created and transformed as a part of political struggle, for critical research, or in art and education. This Is Not an Atlas seeks to inspire, to document the underrepresented, and to be a useful companion when becoming a counter-cartographer yourself.
AI Overview
"This Is Not an Atlas" is a collection of counter-cartographies edited by Kollektiv Orangotango+. The book aims to inspire new counter-cartographies worldwide by gathering maps from various contexts, including political struggles, critical research, art, and education. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
Counter-Cartography: The book focuses on counter-cartography, which involves creating alternative maps that challenge traditional cartographic representations. These maps aim to uncover social problems, create political pressure, and empower marginalized groups by giving them visibility and a voice.
Critical Cartography: It critiques dominant cartographic imaginations and highlights the subjective nature of mapping. The book emphasizes the importance of personal geographies and perceptions of space, encouraging self-organized mapping processes.
Political Engagement: The collection explores how maps can be used as tools for political engagement and social change. It discusses the relationship between maps and power, highlighting how traditional cartographies often erase or marginalize certain groups and processes.
Educational Approach: The book sees counter-cartography as an educational tool. It encourages readers to become occasional cartographers through self-organized mapping processes, fostering critical educational work and dialogue among communities.
Cultural Diversity: The maps in the collection value cultural diversity and represent territory as a continuous, relational space. This approach involves creative brainstorming, manual work, and subjective perspectives, making the mapping process a personal journey for individuals and communities.
Plot Summary
The book is not a traditional narrative but rather a collection of maps and essays that illustrate various approaches to counter-cartography. It includes:
- Maps: A variety of maps that reflect different political struggles, artistic expressions, and educational projects.
- Essays and Reflections: Chapters that discuss the practical aspects of mapping projects, explore different political topics, and examine regional contexts where maps matter.
- Case Studies: Examples of how counter-cartographies have been used in various settings to create visibility for invisible groups and processes, and to initiate self-reflection and critique of society.
Critical Reception
The book has been well-received for its innovative approach to mapping and its potential to inspire new forms of counter-cartography. Here are some key points from the critical reception:
- Inspiration for New Cartographies: The book is seen as a catalyst for creating new counter-cartographies, encouraging readers to engage in self-organized mapping processes and to visualize their personal geographies.
- Empowerment of Marginalized Groups: The collection is praised for its ability to give visibility to marginalized groups and processes, breaking the cartographic silence and empowering people to visualize their perceptions of space.
- Educational Value: The book is recognized for its educational value, providing a practical guide to creating maps and fostering critical thinking and dialogue among communities.
Overall, "This Is Not an Atlas" is a groundbreaking collection that challenges traditional cartographic representations and offers a diverse range of perspectives on the role of maps in political and social contexts.