Compass Rose Design

 


The compass rose is an important element of a nautical chart. Without it, charts would be far less useful to those unfamiliar with the area being referenced. Always pointing north, much like Polaris guiding mariners toward safe harbors, the compass rose provides a critical point of reference for navigation.

These symbols have appeared on maps and charts for centuries, dating back to the Catalan Atlas of 1375. Early versions were known as wind roses because they indicated prevailing wind directions rather than magnetic headings. As magnetic compasses became more common, chartmakers incorporated the compass roses we recognize today, oriented around magnetic north.


This piece is another from the archives. I don't believe we've ever turned it in to a store design, but it's one I've always liked. The compass rose is a geometric design that began with a ruler, measurements, and carefully laid out pencil guidelines. I didn't have the camera rolling for that part of the process, but if you look closely at the beginning of the video, you can still see some of those light construction lines.

I enjoy creating geometric designs like this and nautical stars. They're less about organic forms and more about layout, precision, and symmetry. It's a different mindset than many of my biologic pieces, but one i find equally satisfying.

Enjoy the groovy backing track as well - I always have fun putting those together in GarageBand.

We've also been working on the website to create a cleaner, more modern experience. Take a look and let us know what you think!


Heart & Harbor Store


Until next time, 

- D & J



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