Lethbridge—Have you ever looked at a map and pondered what might be there? Worlds Imagined: The Maps of Imaginary Places, a new exhibit at the Galt Museum & Archives takes a close look at maps of fictional and fantastical places.

Maps have been important features of speculative fiction in literature since the 1800s. Maps are used as plot devices that spur characters on quests and adventures. They can detail travel routes of adventures. They can further be used to represent the cultural and environmental complexity of an imagined world or universe.  Worlds Imagined was created by Cushing Memorial Library & Archives using the institution’s Maps of Imaginary Places Collection. This “geographical multiverse” explores the venerable tradition of maps in speculative fiction in literature since the 1800s.

“We are really pleased to be presenting this exhibit that was originally created by the Cushing Memorial Library & Archives at Texas A&M University,” says the Galt’s Curator, Aimee Benoit. “While maps are a representation of place, they also have the power to fire the imagination, promising adventure and introducing us to new lands. This exhibit can transport visitors to faraway and fantastical lands!”

From maps of J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary Middle-earth to the Marauder’s Map from Harry Potter’s universe, explore a variety of imaginary worlds from literature, games, film and other media. Visitors will also be able to snap a selfie in a life-sized replica of the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones that was custom built for the exhibit by Brad Brown, the Galt’s talented Exhibit Designer.

“Worlds Imagined is an opportunity for visitors to explore nostalgic maps of childhood fantasy and game worlds, but also to explore their own creativity through hands-on activities that are part of the exhibit,” says CEO/Executive Director Susan Burrows-Johnson. “The Galt is excited to host this exhibit that features such familiar and entrancing imagined worlds for our visitors.”

The public programs scheduled at the Galt over the next several months also tie in closely with the exhibit. “We are really pleased with the lineup of lectures and presentations this fall that further explore the theme Worlds Imagined,” says Janae Redgrave, Community Program Coordinator for the Galt. “From lectures and presentations to hands-on activities for all ages, we are exploring the topics in the exhibit throughout the season in these programs for the public.”

Get lost or get found in Worlds Imagined: The Maps of Imaginary Places the new exhibit open at the Galt from September 27 to January 05.

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This media release can be found at www.galtmuseum.com/news.

Media Contact:

Graham Ruttan (he/him)
Marketing and Communications Officer
Galt Museum & Archives | Fort Whoop-Up
graham.ruttan@galtmuseum.com
403.320.4009