Make a Map: What’s Your Oakland Story?
Recommended for ages 5+
Estimated time: 20 minutes
Every day, maps help us navigate public transportation, find places to eat, track the weather, and even visualize political opinions. People use them to share information and tell stories about what’s important. An atlas is a collection of maps that gives us a more complete picture of a place.
Today, we challenge you to create your own personal map of Oakland that shows what you care about. Once you’re done, share it with us so we can add it to our growing Atlas of Oakland, part of OMCA’s exhibition You Are Here: California Stories on the Map. Together, these maps share our connections and diversity, and what’s most important about Oakland now and as we look to the future.
Think about…
- What different kinds of information can maps share?
- What places and people are important to you in Oakland?
Make your own map
Materials
- Paper – print the Atlas of Oakland template map or use it as inspiration to make your own
- Things to draw with – markers, pencils, crayons
- Any other art supplies you have at home
1. Print the Atlas of Oakland template above. Or, use the template as inspiration and make your own.
2. In the map key, add symbols and a list of important spots on your map.
You might include your favorite parks, your friend’s homes, or the best taco trucks and murals.
3. Add your important spots to the map using points, lines, symbols, and color.
Use whatever art supplies you have at home to personalize your map.
Take a photo of your map! Share it with us using #OMCA, and then pass it along to your friends and family.