A Home for Rescued Lions
Client: The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Visit The Wild Animal Sanctuary website at WildAnimalSanctuary.org
This map shows the Bolivian Lion House at The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado. I have been honored to work with the sanctuary for many years. Their mission is straightforward and vital. They rescue and provide lifelong homes for large, exotic, and endangered captive wild animals that have been abandoned or neglected. They also educate the public about the global captive wildlife crisis. It is the kind of work that matters, and contributing to it in any small way feels good.
Where These Lions Came From
The lions in this habitat were rescued from circuses in Bolivia by Animal Defenders International. Their rescue came after a national ban on animal performances took effect. Today, some of these lions live here in the Bolivian Lion House, about halfway along the sanctuary's elevated walkway, while others roam the many acres of habitat. The map depicts the house itself and the immediate surrounding area. I chose to show the building as transparent so visitors can see the interior structure, including the snack bar, and understand how the space works for both the animals and the people who care for them. There are additional graphical icons pointing out available facilities within the rendered area.
My Process for This Map
I created this illustration using the same master three dimensional digital model I built for the sanctuary's overall grounds. For this specific view, I positioned virtual cameras to capture the right angle and perspective. After rendering those views, I brought the images into Photoshop for retouching, cropping, and any necessary edits. The final step was bringing everything into Adobe Illustrator to place logos, graphics, and the map key that lists the resident lions by name.
Form and Function Together
The goal with any map for a place like this is to balance visual appeal with practical use. Visitors need to find their way, but they also deserve a map that reflects the beauty and importance of the sanctuary itself. These maps are used on site for wayfinding and online to give potential visitors a preview of the experience.
Your Project
If you need similar work for a sanctuary, a park, a refuge, or any other venue that requires clear, thoughtful, and visually engaging maps, contact me. I have done this work before and I would be glad to do it for you.
2017 Wild Animal Sanctuary Main Map
2015 Wild Animal Sanctuary Main Map | 2015 Tiger Roundhouse
2015 Mile Into The Wild | 2015 Bolivian Lion House
2013 Wild Animal Sanctuary Main Map | 2013 Tiger Roundhouse
2013 Mile Into The Wild | 2013 Bolivian Lion House
PARK AND THEME PARK MAPS:
