"Mile Into the Wild" Map for The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Architectural Style Map for a Wild Animal Refuge

Artist, Illustrator, Designer: John Potter - Escape Key Graphics
Client: The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Visit The Wild Animal Sanctuary website at WildAnimalSanctuary.org

The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado is an organization I have long been honored to work with. 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.

A Different View of the Sanctuary

This map, titled "Mile Into the Wild," focuses on a different area of the sanctuary than my previous work for them. It highlights the expansive habitats on the the property and the walking paths that wind through them.

Like the elevated walkway map, this one was built to help visitors orient themselves in a place that is unlike any typical park. The scale is large, and the animal habitats are spread out. A clear map makes the difference between a confusing visit and an enjoyable one.

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 helps visitors identify what they are looking at.

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