I work from my studio in East Sussex, where I am constantly creating music maps and plot line maps that represent the musical journeys of bands and solo artists, film narratives, and political events.

Each map results from meticulous research and careful planning, combining precision with creativity to produce something visually striking and data-driven.

Selecting the Subject: From Music Icons to Cultural Narratives

When thinking about making music maps, I choose artists with extensive discographies and significant influence on music and culture for my music maps. Often, fans or family members of the artists request these maps, adding a personal connection layer. I focus on plots and historical moments for films and political events that lend themselves well to visual representation.

Making Music Maps & More: Gathering and Organising Data

Research is a key part of the process. I begin by compiling a list of the artist’s studio albums for music maps. I then researched the credits for each album to identify the musicians involved. This often requires sifting through multiple sources and cross-referencing to ensure accuracy. Once I have the necessary data, I begin correlating it to lay the groundwork for the map.

For films, the process involves breaking down the plot into key points, characters, and their relationships. For political maps, I track significant events, alliances, and shifts in power, organising the data to create a logical and visually coherent design.

The Design Phase: Precision and CAD Software

Once the research is complete, I begin plotting the map using 2D CAD software. This approach is uncommon in art but allows for the precision required in my maps. Each line represents a connection between musicians, plot points, or political events, while intersections mark significant moments like album releases, character interactions, or key political shifts. Every element is drawn individually to ensure accuracy, and the layout is designed for visual appeal and clarity.

Mapping Film Plots: Translating Stories into Visual Form

When mapping movie plots, I focus on translating the story structure into a visual format. Characters often have their own “lines,” with significant plot points or twists becoming intersections. This method ensures the narrative remains clear, even when dealing with complex or non-linear plots. The challenge lies in maintaining simplicity without losing the key elements of the story.

Political Maps: Charting the Complexity of Power Dynamics

I track the evolution of political events, figures, and alliances for political maps. This involves organising the often complex and shifting data into an easy-to-follow format. The maps allow a visual understanding of political movements, highlighting key turning points and connections between influential figures or events.

Final Output: High-Quality Art Prints

After completing the design, I offer the maps as high-quality art prints in various sizes. Each print is created with attention to detail, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards.

Great feedback from customers keeps me motivated, along with knowledgeable input! 

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About Me: From Event Designer to Data Visualisation Specialist

Hi, I’m Mike Bell, a UK-based show and event designer. I started creating these tube-style maps during the lockdown when my work in event design was temporarily put on hold. The first map combined my experience in live music with a growing interest in data visualisation. Since then, I’ve continued to create maps alongside my work in event design, and the two disciplines now form the core of my creative output.

Some of the musician feedback and a few other related organisations have engaged with my music maps.

"IT IS TRULY AMAZING” THE BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN ARCHIVE

"AWESOME!!" WARREN ELLIS

".. IT'S A BRILLIANT IDEA.. REALLY LIKE WHAT YOU'VE DONE, MIKE.." BILLY BRAGG

"BRILLIANT SERIES.." SIMON ROGERS

"YOUR WORK IS VERY COOL AND SMART. I'D LOVE TO HAVE A COPY OF THE PRINCE MAP, ONCE YOU’VE COMPLETED IT." SUSAN ROGERS, PRODUCER

"THE PERFECT GIFT FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO SHOW OFF THEIR MUSIC KNOWLEDGE" RESIDENT MUSIC, BRIGHTON