Carto/Topo/Geo/Graphic

Carto/Topo/Geo/Graphic: Rediscovering Lost Maps, a new exhibition by artist and illustrator Carl Wiens, is the culmination of a year of collecting, clipping, collaging and painting, using vintage maps and atlases as inspiration.

“This exhibition started out small, using found objects and materials in the studio. I’ve always loved old maps and atlases and began the process by deconstructing and rearranging them. The first series utilized topographic maps passed on by my father-in-law, reclaimed fir plywood pieces from my father’s workshop, framed with offcuts of teakwood from the studio of printmaker Peter Mennacher. This was the Planetary series. Then I decided to expand, to see if I could make hexagon-shaped frames for the Terrestrial/Celestial series.” says Wiens, he adds – “People I talk to about this work usually tell me about an old family atlas, a collection of topo maps or how much they just love poring over old maps. Maps are a remarkable resource to work with, and I still have plenty of ideas to work through, so many possibilities.”

On exhibition at the QAC Gallery, 36 Bridge Street East, Belleville, from April 2nd-30th, 2026. Opening Reception: April 2nd, 2026 from 4-6 PM.