Who Knew? Creating Ornaments Out of Maps Could Pay Up for the Horses! Maptometry by Laura Kaslow
Laura Kaslow, a remarkable artist, loving mom, and a beautiful soul, has carved a unique niche in the art world with her creation – Maptometry. For the past six years, Kaslow has been transforming antique optometric lenses from eye doctors into captivating pieces of art using recycled and repurposed antique and vintage maps.
Kaslow’s artistic journey began with a purpose close to her heart – funding her daughter’s Equine therapy. Facing the financial challenge of insurance not covering this therapy for her daughter, who battled the connective tissue disorder Ehlers-Danlos, Kaslow sought an unconventional path. Equine therapy, known for promoting physical, occupational, and emotional growth, became a beacon of hope for her family. This therapy, involving activities with horses, was recommended by her daughter’s geneticist.
To fund this essential therapy, Kaslow ingeniously fused antique maps into optometric lenses. This not only transformed maps into beautiful artifacts but also provided economic sustainability for her family. It’s a testament to Kaslow’s dedication and creativity that she found a way to navigate the challenging landscape of the art industry.
Wearing a pendant crafted from an 1875 French lens embedded with a 1981 Crater Lake, Oregon map from the National Geographic student atlas, Kaslow emphasizes the authenticity of her art. “I use real maps, I don’t photocopy them. There is history, there is recycling,” she asserts. Her commitment to recycling and repurposing aligns with her belief in the importance of exposure to art. According to Kaslow, art broadens perspectives and encourages people to see things differently, a sentiment that fuels her passion.
Despite the economic challenges inherent in the art industry, Kaslow’s success is not just measured in financial terms but in the connections she forges. “I get to meet nice people,” she shares with a genuine smile. Her journey goes beyond creating beautiful art; it’s about sharing and listening to stories. When individuals pick a map for their ornament, they often share their experiences or memories attached to that specific location. Kaslow’s Maptometry has become a platform where personal stories intertwine with her artistic creations.
Each ornament crafted by Kaslow is a testament to her artistic vision and a tangible representation of the histories encapsulated in the real maps she employs. Her dedication to economic sustainability, the well-being of her daughter, and her belief in the transformative power of art make Laura Kaslow’s journey truly remarkable. Maptometry not only enriches homes with unique pieces but also stands as a witness to the resilience and creativity of an artist who turned challenges into a canvas for inspiration.
