Illustrated Boat Show Guest Map
I'm the guy who makes these maps. If you plan on attending the show please visit the show's website to make sure you're getting all the latest information on The Chicago International Boat Show at OfficialCHIBS.com
A First Map in a Great City
The 2025 Chicago International Boat Show marks my first illustrated map for a Chicago event and my first boat show project in the city. I have always loved Chicago, so being part of this feels genuinely exciting. The show takes place at historic Navy Pier, one of the city's most iconic waterfront destinations. That combination of a major marine event and a great location gives boat shoppers a real opportunity to combine a show visit with a Chicago vacation.
How the Map Was Made
This illustrated map was designed to help visitors navigate a large, busy venue without confusion. The view looks almost straight overhead, which keeps things simple for orientation. But beneath that clean appearance is a detailed three dimensional model of Navy Pier built in SketchUp. That model gives the map accurate proportions, realistic shading, and subtle surface textures that a flat drawing cannot match. It also means the map can be adapted for future shows or rendered from different angles as the event evolves.
Finding Your Way
A color coded zone system divides the exhibition space into clear areas. Attendees can spot where they want to go and then drill down to specific booths. An exhibitor legend directs visitors to preferred brands and displays. Numbered markers identify primary points of interest throughout the venue. Essential facilities like restrooms and ticket sales are represented with intuitive icons that anyone can recognize at a glance.
The result is a map that works hard without looking like it is trying. Visually engaging, highly functional, and ready for a busy show.
Other Work for This Client
The Chicago show is produced by Revel Republic, the same company I work with on the Newport Beach and San Diego International Boat Shows. It has been good to expand that partnership into a new city.
Your Map
If you need a custom illustrated map for a boat show, an event, or any venue where people need to find their way, contact me. I have done this work before and I would be glad to do it for you.
Other Revel Republic shows I make maps for are The Newport Beach International Boat Show and The San Diego International Boat Show.
PORTFOLIO SELECTIONS
- Custom illustration & covers: Featuring bespoke illustration, book and magazine covers, hand-drawn maps, and building renderings.
- Fine art & murals: Including one-of-a-kind paintings and drawings, the Custom Halftone Series, and large-scale murals.
- Design & motion media: Covering graphic design, plus video and motion and animated illustration.
- Mapping by application: Tailored maps for marine events, hospitality, waterfront, property, transit, municipal, recreation, and navigation needs.
- Additional creative work: Includes editorial covers, vehicle graphics, concept renderings, and public art.
- Mediums & formats: Ranging from digital vector and isometric projection to traditional paint, line art, GIS-based, aerial-style, and halftone.
- Software expertise: Proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, InDesign, and Premiere/After Effects for motion.
