Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Pickett.
Hi Christopher, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It all started when I was in college at Texas A&M University, I obtained the skill of using GIS or Geographic Information Systems. GIS is an innovative technology that allows me to manipulate real-world imagery from satellites using computer software. I became a GIS enthusiast and looked forward to using the software every day. Eventually, I graduated from Texas A&M and started my professional career in GIS. Over the course of the next four years, my interest in GIS never wavered and I constantly discovered new ways to use this technology. During the pandemic, I was in the market for a map to decorate my empty apartment walls. I noticed that the maps available online lacked the details, photo qualities, and deep colors that I seek. I wanted a map that would invoke a memory that I had during a hiking adventure I had at Enchanted Rock State Park. I couldn’t find anything like this on the internet and almost abandoned the search. Then something sparked in my mind, what if I created it? With my ample free time, I jumped at the opportunity to try this idea out. I bought a large photo printer, downloaded the raw aerials of the location, obtained photo editing software, and started printing out maps to see if it was possible to create geographic art. I quickly found that the results of my custom-printed Enchanted Rock map were stunning in detail. I was able to create the map what I was searching for, and I knew I wasn’t the only one who wanted this in their space. Mapzona was then created as a business and now we stand to print out maps that invoke detail, emotion, and beauty. Ever since I have been printing personalized maps to customers all over the United States. I stand to promote everyone the artistry and passion that maps can provide and to introduce a way for customers to manifest their adventures in map form.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road is never as smooth as you would want it, but I’ve found it better to learn along the way. There have been many struggles that I have encountered, which in time have become easier to overcome. One example is that I found it not so easy to understand the best audience for my work. There are few examples in the world of a cartography business solely on its art and presenting its impact on a person. Eventually, I recognized that it is it best to cater to people who enjoy visiting places, an adventure seeker and enjoys a particular favorite location in the world. I believe that person would be impacted by my geographic location and would discover my map to be the perfect piece to put on display. I’m fortunate to live in a country that allows me access raw images from millions of square miles of land. This has a downside though; it can be overwhelming to pick and choose the right place. I acknowledged that I should narrow down the selection to places that bring out the most sentiment in people. My Houston poster collection is one instance of this since my hometown presents a plethora of feelings that I now can display to millions of people. In the future, I may offer an easier way for a customer to request a map so I can focus on what my customers may have a passion for. These are just a few examples of struggles I have had as a business owner but it’s important to understand that they will always be a part of a business. What you do to resolve that challenge is what makes you succeed.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Mapzona?
Mapzona made it a mission to serve works of artisan-crafted maps to the world. Down to the cotton paper, it’s print on to the inks the printer uses, it is all presented in a way to make it a perfect addition to a home or an office. We start with genuine premium cotton paper, which allow us to craft maps that look and feel as distinguished as a museum piece. Maps are printed with high-quality archival inks with a phenomenal depth of colors and use the latest ink technology designed to provide stunning lasting prints. Each map is individually processed using photo editing software and are proudly made in the United States from Houston. We also offer premade maps of different places, which is updated weekly. Ranging from the cities of the United States to national parks, we hope to provide a beautiful map for anywhere you’ve traveled. The paper sizes are 8” x 10”, 11” x 14”, and 13” x 19” printed on 100% cotton acid-free archival paper. Custom orders are welcomed via email or phone, and we can make it a quick turnaround within a week to make any personalized map. We prioritize every customer to provide a service unlike no other, we want to make sure every order is masterly fulfilled to the customer’s specifications. If any order is not up to your expectations, we will provide a complimentary refund for your order. Mapzona can serve both businesses and customers with high-quality aerial poster art that you can enjoy for decades.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory was going to the annual book fair, but not in the way you would think. I am a visual learner as I was more attracted to books that offer some type of map, cross sections, reference guides, or easy-to-understand illustrations. I would call myself an incredibly curious person who strives to see and learn everything about the world. This pertains to the visual appreciation that I have for my business. I am particular on how my maps are shown and will take the extra time to put fine detail on any product that I present to a customer. Since I was a child, I’ve wanted to show the true world like I saw in books. Satellites in outer space have presented us with a gift that people only hundreds of years ago would have never imagined. Every map that I print reminds me of the same level of excitement as when I was a child. The true visual representation of our earth is available in raw form, you just need to curate it for everyone to enjoy.
Pricing:
- 8″ x 10″ – $29
- 11″ x 14″ – $39
- 13″ x 19″ – $59
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mapzona.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapzona
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mapzona
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/mapzona
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCRwkONrZRsVjSAPxsU8pe5w
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Mapzona
Image Credit:
Page Dporterweddings
