How does one become a fantasy cartographer and what is it?
A fantasy cartographer is someone who draws maps based on descriptions and/or drafts of fictional worlds. 

How one becomes a fantasy cartographer is generally different to each person but a great way to start is to research geography, earth sciences, and get a general idea of how biomes and natural features are formed. And of course, learn illustration. Then it’s a matter of honing your craft, posting your art online, and offering your skills & services to game masters or authors.     

What’s your process for creating maps?
If they are original maps I create based on my own imagination, I start with the purpose of the map. Why does this part of a fantasy world need this map? Is it for sailing, travel, display of territory, battle, trade routes, etc.? I then use my knowledge of earth sciences to sketch out a realistic region, continent, or world that meets the needs of the map. I then add in fun details and features that I hope will spark viewers interest and sense of exploration. I love to hide details in maps as much as possible.

f it’s a map I’m creating based on someone else’s designs, I tend to focus on the story they are trying to tell and pay extra attention to those details on the map. It is always my intention to have the map tell part of the story, to be an echo to match the tale being told. And just like with my own maps, I try to add tons of details whenever possible without adding things the client didn’t request or approve.

How did you start working with Critical Role?
I caught the eye of Matthew Mercer on Twitter while I was creating maps for various people and myself. We talked a bit back and forth about TTRPGs, maps, stories, etc. At the end of campaign one, Taliesin stated that Percy would “hire artisans to tell the tale of Vox Machina” and I knew instantly I wanted to make a map of Tal’Dorei as fan art. I did and Matt saw a video of me coloring individual trees on the map. He expressed his wonderment and I sent him a message asking him what was the best way to get it to him. Next thing I know, he expressed that he needed a map for the next campaign and I jumped at the chance! The rest is, as they say, history.

What’s been your favorite to create? Why that one?
My favorite map is always the one I’m currently working on. Any time I get to play in my imagination and have fun is the project I love the most at the time. But if I had to pick just one, I would have to say it’s the map I made of the Dwendalian Empire. Mostly because the mountains create a heart shape and I love that.

What are you most excited about for this season of Quest’s End and our new map?
Is it too cheesy to say the fans’ excitement? Honestly, that’s always the part I love most. Watching grown adults look at something with child-like excitement is the best feeling in the world, especially when it’s your art causing it.

What’s your favorite class to play?
Druid.

What’s your favorite drink or cocktail?
Whiskey neat.