Tom Patterson is a former cartographer with the U.S. National Park Service, past president and executive director of the North American Cartographic Information Society (NACIS), and active member of the ICA Commission on Mountain Cartography. Although his primary cartographic interest is shaded relief, Tom works on many types of maps, including bird’s-eye views of historical sites, animations, interactive exhibits, and solid terrain models.
“Cartographic realism” guides his approach to map design. When appropriate and used in moderation, natural environmental effects—such as sun glints on water, warm illumination, organic textures, and natural colors—are added. The goal is to create maps that attract and hold the reader’s attention, encouraging visual exploration. With today’s technology, map design and production are merged, and data drives everything. Relevant data is thrown onto a base map and combined in different ways to reveal the spatial stories they tell.
This gallery features 32 wall maps available for purchase in multiple finishes.
Finish Options
Every map is available in three finishes. Most come in Paper, Laminated (Gloss), or Premium Photo Paper, while a select few maps offer Matte Laminate instead of Premium Photo Paper due to size limitations.
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Paper
Printed on our standard high-quality matte paper, this option offers excellent color accuracy and fine detail with a smooth, non-reflective finish. The matte surface minimizes glare, making it ideal for reading, studying, and framing under glass. FSC-certified and well-suited for both wall display and frequent reference.
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Laminated (Gloss)
This option begins with our standard matte paper and is finished with a professional gloss laminate. The lamination enhances color vibrancy and contrast while adding durability and moisture resistance. The glossy surface is easy to wipe clean and helps protect the map from handling, making it ideal for long-term use.
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Premium Photo Paper
Printed on Epson Premium Luster Photo Paper, this is our highest-end paper option. It delivers exceptionally rich color, deep blacks, and crisp detail with a subtle satin-luster finish that reduces glare while maintaining photographic depth. This premium stock is designed for presentation-quality prints and professional display.
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Laminated (Matte)
Printed on our standard high-quality matte paper and finished with a professional matte laminate, this option adds durability and protection while preserving a soft, low-glare appearance. The laminated surface resists moisture, fingerprints, and scuffs without introducing shine, making it ideal where readability and longevity matter most.
Explore Tom Patterson's Map Gallery
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Adirondack Park Physical Map - Mountains, Lakes, & Rivers
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Adirondack Park - General Reference
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Cirque of the Towers
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Earth from Space
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Equal Earth Political Map - Countries of the World
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Equal Earth Physical Map - Topographies & Environments
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Emerald Pools - Zion National Park
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Exploring Greenland's Southern Tip
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Going to the Sun Road
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High Mountain Asia - Physical Features
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Jenny Lake Hiking Trails
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Kalaupapa National Historical Park
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Katmai National Park and Preserve
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Lake District of Northern Patagonia
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Mount Katahdin
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Mount Timpanogos
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North Atlantic Seafloor
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Northern Antarctic Peninsula
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Physical Features of Africa
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Physical Features of Island Southeast Asia
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Physical Features of South America
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Physical Features of the Circumpolar North
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Physical Features of the Contiguous United States
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Prince William Sound, Alaska
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Southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego
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Svalbard: Norway's High-Arctic Archipelago
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Tahiti and Moorea
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The Heart of Canyonlands National Park
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