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MaP Design
lacks contrast. As we have seen, maps are not linear and are not read in the way text
is, from top to bottom and left to right. Establishing a
visual hierarchy through size,
boldness, and color helps lead the reader’s eye (Figure 2.10). Thus, the mapmaker
uses large type to attract the eye to the title and uses “heavy” colors such as red or
black to emphasize areas.
One important aspect of the visual hierarchy is the
figure–ground relationship.
In a graphic communication, one area will stand out as the figure and another will
be the ground or background. If the figure–ground relationship is not clear-cut, the
communication will be ambiguous; this is the basis of many optical illusions (see
Figure 2.11). If there is no clear visual hierarchy of color, an unclear figure–ground
distinction can also result. For maps, the thematic information and the subject area
are normally the figure and the base information is the ground.
The distinction between land and water is a special aspect of the figure–ground
problem. Usually, the land is intended to stand out as figure, but if land and water
have equal visual emphasis, readers have a very difficult time orienting themselves.
Figure 2.12 illustrates coastal cities. Because the lettering is on both land and water
areas, it is impossible to determine, without being familiar with the area, what is land
and what is water.
Figure 2.13 shows several ways to establish a land–water distinction.
Water lin-
ing was a customary way of symbolizing water on engraved maps for several centu-
ries, but it is no longer an acceptable method unless one is attempting to create an
antique feel. It is hard to read, and the lines are often mistaken for depth contours
when, in fact, they have no numerical value.
Stippling is another conventional technique that was used primarily for manually
drawn black-and-white maps. It was easy to do, and attractive when well done, but
there is danger that readers might interpret the dots as representing sandy areas.
Line and
wave patterns have also been used, but lines often create an unpleasant,
vibrating effect that is hard on readers’ eyes. The wave pattern is not desirable except
