In this video, Trevor Sweeney will tell you the story of John “the Map” Callanan.

A Brief Summary

In this 10-minute video, John ‘The Map’ Callanan shares his passion for creating unique maps and his love for Sligo. His maps capture the fast growth and changes of the Celtic Tiger years, featuring modern information. One of his favourite maps, “The Pubs of Sligo Town Centre,” showcases historical information and detailed representations of pub fronts. John discusses his process, which involves using a folding bicycle with a magnet and a compass to measure distances and angles while exploring the streets of Sligo. He then transfers the measurements onto his computer and turns them into graphics, which are sent to a company in Sheffield that creates laser-cut rubber stamps. People appreciate the quality, readability, and old map look of his creations.

John expresses his deep connection to Sligo, describing it as a special place with a vibrant music scene, art, and beautiful landscape. Through creating maps, he feels he can truly know and understand a place by exploring it firsthand.