Philip Bennett Walker x M.E.R.A Maps Collaboration Round 2
Sharks and geography - what’s more to love? The scoop on Philips latest collaboration with Jay Wilson of M.E.R.A Maps is here and we can’t wait to fill you in!
Philip, a native of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, grew up surfing and splashing among the local shores of this coastal city, also known as the Shark Bite Capital of the World.
He and his friends as well as any other ocean loving local literally grew up learning how to swim with sharks, and to respect their home. In the words of Philip: “we were brought up to fearless like warriors and this was our battle ground.”
His experience definitely taught him that it's better to be a shark than a guppy.
It’s also no secret that he’s incorporated numerous images from his Florida lifestyle and love for our natural surroundings in many of his paintings.
This collaborative piece represents Philips roots, as well as honors the ultimate ocean predator that frequents New Smyrna's beaches.
On the map dated from 1960, you can see detailed labels of everything from official government buildings, to the Old Fort Ruins.
Also, ironically it was once dubbed "Worlds Safest Beach." Remember when I said it’s now known as the shark bite capital?
As with most cities, especially those in Florida that have seen development booms as more and more folks flock to the sunshine state, this map is particularly special as it shows the city before the major growth.
Besides the city limits and major roads, you can see many waterways and natural land formations as well as history preserved in time.
You may remember another similar collaboration from Philip and Jay - the Jacksonville Jaguar painted on a 1918 map of Downtown Jacksonville. These pieces serve as a bridge between past and present, where Philip has come of age not just physically but also as an artist. The teamwork between Jay and Philip also serves the art community, as two different mediums form a new style of art.
For those that have roots in New Smyrna Beach, family and friends that reside there, or just love this quaint town for a quick getaway- this piece is for you! The original certainly didn't last long, and there will only be a limited batch of 50 released.
What city map collaboration do you want to see next?!
