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.
WORK FOR REVEL REPUBLIC:
CUSTOM BOAT SHOW MAPS:
PORTFOLIOS
- Illustration Portfolio: Start here for custom illustration and book covers. You can also browse illustrated maps and architectural rendering.
- Fine Art: I offer original paintings and drawings, including my Custom Halftone Series. You will also find mural work here.
- Graphic Design & Motion: View my graphic design portfolio. After that, explore motion design and animated illustrations.
- Maps by application: I create illustrated maps for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation, transit and parking, towns and cities, parks, and wayfinding.
- Additional project types: I also produce cover illustration, vehicle and vinyl wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Illustration methods: My techniques include vector, isometric and axonometric, painting, black and white, GeoData maps, overhead maps, and custom halftones.
- Software portfolios: I work primarily in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp Pro, and Adobe InDesign. For motion projects, I use Premiere Pro and After Effects. You can watch my demo reel here.
