Boat show site plan illustrated as a map
Client: Show Management
2014 Yacht and Brokerage Show in Miami Beach | 2014 Shuttle Bus Routes Map
This Miami Beach map was the result of modification of the existing digital model created for the previous years' show. For 2014 I rendered the model from a slightly different angle and adjusted both zoom and field of view giving it slightly less of a fisheye lens type feel.
The illustration features a distinctly Miami inspired color palette with soft pastels that reflect the character and energy of the area. There is a notable color shift towards cooler colors than the previous year which used a lot of pink. The map was designed as a wide foldout piece for print use. Although the boat shows no longer use this specific venue, the surrounding neighborhood remains largely unchanged, making the map a lasting visual record of the location and a resource I can return to if needed.
Wayfinding was handled through a clear and organized system. Ramps were keyed using numbered red rectangles, while additional points of interest were marked with colored, numbered dots. Recurring amenities were represented with simple icons for easy recognition. The three dimensional model was created in SketchUp Pro, refined in Adobe Photoshop, and completed with final layout and graphic elements in Adobe Illustrator. This project demonstrates an ability to introduce minor design and rendering changes to add variety to a map that has recurrent use.
EXAMPLES OF MAPS CREATED FOR MIAMI BOAT SHOWS:
Maps For Boat Shows In Miami:
- About Miami Boat Shows
- Miami International Boat Show / Miami Yacht Show / Yachts Miami Beach / Miami Beach Yacht and Brokerage Show - Show Center/Primary Venue Maps: 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011
- Transportation Map: 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2020 | 2019 | 2016 | 2013 | 2012
- Program Layout: 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022
- Yacht Haven Grande at Island Gardens: 2026 | 2022 | 2020 | 2016
- Miami Beach Convention Center: 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2013 | 2012
- Sea Isle Marina Only: 2013 | 2012
- Miamarina at Bayside Only: 2013 | 2012 | 2011
- Bayfront Park: 2015
- Museum Park Marina: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022
- Illustration (not a map): 2014
- Video: 2013
Miami International Boat Show Maps 2013:
Miami Beach Convention Center Map | New Yacht & Power Boat Show at Sea Isle MarinaStrictly Sail Miami at Miamarina Bayside | Miami International Boat Show Transit | Miami Beach Convention Center Parking
BOAT SHOW MAPS ARTICLE - SOUTHERN BOATING MAGAZINE 2016:
"Navigating Miami’s multiple venues is easier when you use a map. If you’re at Yachts Miami Beach – formerly The Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show – the man behind those maps is John Potter of Escape Key Graphics, who created his first boat show map for the 201 Fort Lauderdale Int’l. Boat Show. It wasn't long before the creative concept spread. Less intimidating than site plans and more easier to follow than an aerial photography, Potter’s maps now grace the Stuart Boat Show, St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show in Florida and International Boat Shows like Newport, Palm Beach and Panama. His work on these shows frequently extends to many maps such as detailed area maps and transit maps. Potter’s maps can also be seen beyond the yachting industry in theme parks, resorts, wildlife sanctuaries, municipalities, campuses and gardens including Flamingo Gardens, Dinosaur World parks or The Dover International Speedway."
ADDENDUM:
I am presently responsible for illustrated maps for The Chicago International Boat Show, The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, The Miami International Boat Show, The Newport International Boat Show, The Newport Beach International Boat Show, The San Diego International Boat Show, The Windy City Boat & Yacht Show, The Palm Beach International Boat Show, The Suncoast Boat Show and the The Saint Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show.
There is a directory in my Boat Show Map Portfolio
PORTFOLIO GALLERIES
- Illustration work: Start with custom illustration and cover design, then view illustrated maps and architectural renderings.
- Fine art: Discover original paintings and drawings, the Custom Halftone Series, and mural projects.
- Design & motion: Check out the graphic design gallery, then move on to motion graphics and animated illustration.
- Maps by sector: I produce illustrated maps for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transit & parking, towns & cities, parks, and wayfinding systems.
- More creative services: Additional offerings include cover illustration, vehicle wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Artistic methods: My work spans vector art, isometric & axonometric views, traditional painting, black & white illustration, GeoData mapping, overhead perspectives, and halftone effects.
- Preferred software: I rely on Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp Pro, and InDesign, plus Premiere Pro & After Effects for motion projects.