Archipelago: An Atlas of Imagined Islands

A captivating collection of illustrations, Archipelago: An Atlas of Imagined Islands explores the allure of fictional islands through the creativity of various artists.

In Archipelago: An Atlas of Imagined Islands, a remarkable collection of illustrations brings to life a series of fantastical islands, each envisioned by a diverse group of international artists. This atlas features contributions from notable illustrators such as Coralie Bickford-Smith, Bill Bragg, Marion Deuchars, and Chris Riddell, among others. Their artistic interpretations invite readers to step into a world where imagination knows no bounds, celebrating the allure of islands that have fascinated humanity for centuries.

The concept of 'islomania' reveals a deep-seated fascination with islands as self-contained worlds, often embodying ideals of utopia and adventure. The book reflects on the historical significance of islands in literature, tracing back to early maps created by Venetian sailors and the iconic tale of Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe. This narrative not only established a new literary genre but also transformed the way islands are perceived in storytelling, blending reality with fantasy in compelling ways.

To commemorate the 300th anniversary of Robinson Crusoe, Archipelago offers a fresh perspective as leading illustrators share their visions of being marooned on their unique islands. Each page unfolds a new adventure, presenting a vibrant tapestry of creativity that serves as both a guidebook to these imagined realms and an invitation to dreamers and explorers alike. This atlas is a celebration of the endless possibilities that islands represent in our collective imagination.