CityWood Artwork

CityWood Artwork

CityWood Artwork is an innovative three-dimensional wooden map design that masterfully combines modern digital technology with traditional craftsmanship, created by Polish architect and designer Hubert Roguski. This sophisticated art installation transforms urban cartography into a layered wooden sculpture, where city streets, waterways, and landscapes are represented through precisely cut layers of fine-quality plywood, each meticulously crafted to create a compelling depth effect. The artwork, measuring 450mm in width and height with a 30mm depth, employs advanced laser cutting technology in conjunction with Geographic Information System (GIS) and OpenStreetMap data to achieve exceptional precision in reproducing urban patterns. Each piece exhibits unique characteristics due to the natural grain patterns inherent in the wood, making every artwork a one-of-a-kind creation. The design process involved extensive prototyping to determine optimal proportions for street widths and layer depths, resulting in a harmonious balance between technical accuracy and artistic expression. This innovative approach to cartographic art earned the Golden A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2018, recognizing its outstanding contribution to contemporary design. The artwork's versatility allows for both wall-mounted and desk-standing display options, making it suitable for various interior settings including living rooms, dining areas, and office spaces. The project, which originated in Warsaw, Poland in 2017, represents a significant advancement in the intersection of traditional materials, digital fabrication, and urban cartography, demonstrating how modern technology can be harnessed to create sophisticated artistic interpretations of urban landscapes.

wooden artwork, urban cartography, laser-cut design, three-dimensional map, architectural art, contemporary craftsmanship

— Adam Dawson