Anthropocene, Google Maps Imagery Rearranged into Compositions That Look Like Persian Rugs

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Las Vegas, NV, United States of America 2009-10”

For his “Anthropocene” series, Irish artist David Thomas Smith created intricate abstract patterns out of Google Maps imagery of cities, industrial installations, and other man-made landscapes. The uncanny resemblance of the compositions to handwoven rugs is no accident—Smith was inspired in part by Persian and Afghan rug design. “Anthropocene” is on display at the Copper House Gallery in Dublin through April 16, 2013.

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Delta Coal Port, Vancouver, BC, Canada, 2009-10”

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Mall of America, East Brodway, Bloomington, MN, United States 2009-10”

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Three Mile Island Generating Station, Middletown, PA, United States of America 2010-11”

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Biosphere 2, Oracle, AZ, United States of America 2010-11”

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Beijing International Airport, Beijing, People’s Republic of China, 2009-10”

Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith

“Las Norias de Daza, Almeria, Spain 2009-10”

E.D.W. Lynch
E.D.W. Lynch

Writer and humor generalist on the Internet and on Facebook.