A pixel map is a work of computer art consisting of a map of a region or the entire world represented with pixels. A pixel, or pixel, is the smallest component or basic component of a raster image. Raster images use small dots, squares, lines, or other shapes to create a larger image. These images may appear to be one uniform image, but when viewed under magnification, they reveal hundreds or thousands of tiny pixels of individual colors that make up the entire image.
woman holding a book
These types of pixelated images were often seen when the technology could not cost-effectively produce a uniform image. Since many affordable printers are now capable of creating a smooth image with barely noticeable pixels, using pixels to create art has become a style of its own. Any work that displays a map that is blocky or made up of smaller dots or squares is likely to be considered a pixel map.
This type of pixmap can usually be purchased at art supply stores or art stores. Like the pop art of artists like Andy Warhol, these pieces are considered to reflect a certain time or era through artistic representation. The pixel map represents older technology visualization that could not easily create the fluid illustrations found today.
These pixel renderings may please video game enthusiasts who fondly remember the pixelated games of their youth. Similarly, anyone who has worked with computers or created primitive computer art such as clip art can also find a fond connection to these pieces of pixel art. A pixmap is fairly easy to make with any decent piece of raster imaging software, and while it can be rendered in any color an artist desires, it’s usually created in black and white. This adherence to grayscale also emulates the monochrome simplicity of earlier computing systems.
This type of digital map will not be a particularly useful map for looking up places in the world; it is generally preferred for decoration rather than utility. However, a decent pixel map should accurately scale and illustrate the world and can allow a traveler to easily indicate where she has visited with thumbtacks or notes. This simplified map can, in fact, allow someone to more easily show where they have been, because it emphasizes the places visited on the ground of the world.
