“Maps become far more than expressions of cartography, they become holders of our memories; part of our personal journeys and to some extent, records of our passage through life itself.”

Tasker, 1999

Contour Map Collection celebrates our connection to the land by harnessing the narrative power of maps.

Maps have the capacity tell the tales of our adventures and (it sounds a little grand, but it’s true) our history. Whether it’s the unforgettable landscape of home, where you found love, or completed a once in a lifetime challenge, this is an utterly unique way to celebrate those moments and tell your story.

handmade in sheffield, by holly

Holly graduated from the Birmingham School of Jewellery in 2016 and started her first jewellery brand [Holly Suzanna Clifford] from the garden shed. The ideas for Contour Map Collection were always there, bubbling away, until 2018 when she moved up to Sheffield and into a workshop at The Persistence Works, giving her the tools and the space to ‘go bigger’.

A childhood filled with orienteering and kayaking in the Sea Scouts (a very land-locked Midlands troop!) kindled her appreciation for maps. Today, you’ll mostly find her trotting about the Eastern edge of the Peak District, still excited when she finds a new trail or trig.

'Storytelling through jewellery and art is something I’m extremely passionate about; Contour Map Collection is very much about creating truly personal pieces that hold a lot of sentimental value for their owner. Aside from the enormous practicality of maps, I just think they’re endlessly interesting and beautiful; you can get lost in the entrancing structure of the flowing contour lines.’

Holly creates both map jewellery and wall pieces, which can be personalised to weave your story into the metal.

Lifting the contour lines from your desired locations, their relief is cut into metal then hand formed and finished to create eye catching, topographical works of art.

The maps can be personalised with hand-stamped or engraved details, like initials and dates, as well as marked with tiny granules or gemstones, pin-pointing special locations. Or why not document your favourite trail, cycling or climbing route?

Have a peek at the Stories page, to be inspired by other Contour Map customer’s bespoke commissions.

Arrange to visit Holly’s workshop at Yorkshire Artspace-

Studio 31, The Persistence Works, 21 Brown Street, Sheffield, S1 2BS